ATI TEAS Science Test Related

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Why is it essential to formulate a hypothesis before conducting an experiment?

  • A. It will increase the investigator's reputation and prestige if their hypothesis is proven correct.
  • B. The hypothesis helps guide the investigation by suggesting what the investigator should be looking for.
  • C. Formulating a hypothesis shows potential sources of funding that the investigator has given some thought to the experiment.
  • D. The hypothesis directs which results to keep and publish; results that do not match the hypothesis should be discarded.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Formulating a hypothesis before conducting an experiment is crucial because it helps guide the investigation by suggesting what the investigator should be looking for. A hypothesis serves as a prediction or an educated guess about what might happen in the experiment, providing a clear direction for the research process. It allows the investigator to focus on specific variables and outcomes, making the experiment more organized and effective. Choice A is incorrect because the primary purpose of a hypothesis is not to boost an investigator's reputation but to guide the research. Choice C is incorrect as formulating a hypothesis is not primarily about impressing funders but about setting a clear direction for the study. Choice D is incorrect because the hypothesis is not meant to dictate which results to keep based on preconceived notions but to guide the investigation and allow for unbiased interpretation of results.