Question

consider the following prediction.
prediction: if the height of an adult mustard plant is determined by the weight of the seed it grew from, then heavier mustard seeds should grow into taller plants when temperature, water, and soil are controlled.
which of the following best describes this prediction?
a. the prediction is useful because it explains what observations will be made if a hypothesis is true.
b. the prediction is useful because it proves that the hypothesis is true before any data have been collected.
c. the prediction is not useful because scientists are skeptical of anyone who claims to see into the future.
d. the prediction is not useful because it has not yet been peer - reviewed by other scientists.

Explanation:

A prediction in science is based on a hypothesis. It describes what should be observed if the hypothesis holds. This prediction links the hypothesis (seed weight determines plant height) to expected observations (heavier seeds → taller plants under controlled conditions). Option B is wrong as predictions don't prove hypotheses before data collection. Options C and D are incorrect as skepticism about seeing - into - the - future and lack of peer - review aren't relevant to the prediction's usefulness in the scientific method context.

Answer:

A. The prediction is useful because it explains what observations will be made if a hypothesis is true.