Question

select the word that means new and different. in 2012, scientists noticed something while studying a certain type of leafcutter bee. many of the bees were using a novel material to build their nests. leafcutter bees usually cut leaves for their nests. scientists found, however, that some bees were making nests from small pieces of plastic shopping bags. scientists dont know whether using plastic will harm the bees or help them. more research is needed.

Explanation:

The word "novel" means new and different. In the context of the text about leafcutter bees using a new - in this case, plastic - material for nest - building, "novel" is used to describe this new and different material.

Answer:

novel