Question

a hypothesis states: if the amount of fertilizer is increased, then the yield of corn will increase. which of the following characteristics makes this a valid scientific hypothesis?
it is based on observations of cornfields.
it proposes a relationship between two variables.
it can be tested through experimentation and potentially shown to be false.
it is a widely accepted explanation in agriculture.
a student sees that the leaves on a plant are wilting. they infer that the plant needs more water. what is the observation in this scenario?
the plant needs more water.
the student made an inference.
plants need water to survive.
the leaves on the plant are wilting.
which of the following best defines an inference?
a statement that can be proven true or false through experimentation.
a factual piece of information gathered through direct experience.
a carefully controlled procedure to test a hypothesis.
a logical conclusion or interpretation based on observations and prior knowledge.

Explanation:

First Question

A valid scientific hypothesis must be testable. While being based on observations (first option) is good, it's not the key characteristic. Proposing a relationship (second option) is part of it, but testability is crucial. Being a widely - accepted explanation (fourth option) is not a requirement for a hypothesis. The third option, stating it can be tested and potentially shown to be false, aligns with the testability criterion of a scientific hypothesis.

An observation is a direct, factual statement about what is seen. "The plant needs more water" is an inference. "The student made an inference" is a statement about the student's action. "Plants need water to survive" is a general knowledge statement. "The leaves on the plant are wilting" is a direct observation.

• A statement that can be proven true or false through experimentation is a hypothesis.
• A factual piece of information gathered through direct experience is an observation.
• A carefully controlled procedure to test a hypothesis is an experiment.
• An inference is a logical conclusion or interpretation based on observations and prior knowledge.

Answer:

It can be tested through experimentation and potentially shown to be false.

Second Question