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Multiple Choice
To be a possible answer to a scientific question, a hypothesis must be:
A
testable and falsifiable
B
unchangeable regardless of new evidence
C
based solely on opinion
D
proven true before experimentation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the definition of a hypothesis: A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon, based on prior knowledge and observations, that can be tested through experimentation or observation.
Recognize the key characteristics of a scientific hypothesis: It must be testable (able to be examined through experiments or observations) and falsifiable (able to be proven false if evidence contradicts it).
Eliminate incorrect options: A hypothesis cannot be 'unchangeable regardless of new evidence' because science relies on revising ideas based on new data. Similarly, it cannot be 'based solely on opinion' because it must be grounded in evidence and logic. Lastly, it cannot be 'proven true before experimentation' because the purpose of experimentation is to test the hypothesis.
Focus on the correct characteristics: A valid scientific hypothesis must allow for testing and the possibility of being proven false if the evidence does not support it.
Conclude that the correct answer is 'testable and falsifiable,' as these are the fundamental requirements for a hypothesis to be considered scientific.