Question

question 18 of 25
how are an inference and a conclusion related?
a. an inference is an educated guess, while a conclusion
is based on evidence.

b. an inference is a scientific conclusion formed using
observation, evidence, and reasoning.

c. an inference is used to start an investigation, and a
conclusion is formed at the end of an investigation.

d. an inference is made before data are analyzed, and a
conclusion is made after data are analyzed.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option A: An inference is not just an educated guess; it's based on evidence and reasoning too, so A is incorrect.
• Option B: An inference is a conclusion (often scientific) drawn using observation, evidence, and reasoning. This matches the relationship between inference and conclusion.
• Option C: Inferences are not used to start investigations; they are drawn during or after analyzing data, so C is wrong.
• Option D: Inferences are made after (or during) data analysis, not before, so D is incorrect.

Answer:

B. An inference is a scientific conclusion formed using observation, evidence, and reasoning.