Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Musca domestica is the scientific name for the common housefly. This species is known for being a common pest found in and around human habitations. Drosophila melanogaster (option B) is a species of fruit fly commonly used in genetic research. Apis mellifera (option C) is the scientific name for the western honeybee. Anopheles gambiae (option D) is a species of mosquito known for being a vector of malaria.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Researching previous studies for background.' Before formulating a hypothesis, it is essential to review existing literature, studies, and information related to the topic to understand the context and identify gaps in knowledge. This step helps researchers build on existing knowledge and formulate a clear hypothesis based on the information gathered. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they come after the step of researching previous studies and developing a hypothesis. Collecting and organizing data, conducting an experiment, and communicating results typically follow the hypothesis generation step in the scientific method.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Ductility is the property of a substance that allows it to be drawn into thin wires without breaking. Conductivity refers to the ability of a substance to conduct electricity or heat, not to be drawn into wires. Viscosity is the measure of a fluid's resistance to flow, not related to the ability to be drawn into wires. Malleability is the property of a substance that allows it to be hammered or rolled into thin sheets, not specifically related to being drawn into wires. Therefore, the correct property for the ability to be drawn into thin wires is ductility.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: During a scientific investigation, the independent variable is intentionally changed or manipulated by the researcher to observe its impact or effect on the dependent variable. The independent variable is the one being tested or studied to see how it influences the dependent variable. In contrast, the dependent variable is the outcome or response that is measured in an experiment and is expected to change as a result of the manipulation of the independent variable. Choices A, B, and C are not directly altered during a scientific investigation but play different roles in the research process. Therefore, the correct answer is D - the independent variable.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, cytoplasm. Cytoplasm is the fluid-filled, jelly-like substance within the cell that suspends the organelles. The nucleus, not the correct answer, is the organelle that contains the cell's genetic material. The plasma membrane, another incorrect choice, is the outer boundary of the cell that regulates what enters and exits the cell. The Golgi apparatus, also an incorrect choice, is an organelle involved in processing and packaging proteins.