What step of the scientific method must come before generating a hypothesis?

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: The correct answer is B: Bacteria. Dysentery is typically caused by bacterial infections, such as Shigella, Campylobacter, or Escherichia coli. While parasites and protozoa can also cause similar symptoms, bacterial infections are the most common causes of dysentery. Choice A (Helminth) is incorrect as helminths are parasitic worms that typically cause different types of infections. Choice C (Protozoan) is incorrect as some protozoa like Entamoeba histolytica can cause dysentery, but bacterial infections are more common. Choice D (Fungus) is incorrect as fungal infections do not typically cause dysentery.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Influenza. Influenza is a viral infection caused by the influenza virus. Asthma and cystic fibrosis are not caused by viruses. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition related to inflammation and airway constriction, while cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder affecting the lungs and other organs. Epiglottitis is most commonly caused by bacteria, particularly Haemophilus influenzae type B, rather than a virus.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Dependent, y.' In experimental design, the dependent variable is the outcome that is being measured or observed as a result of changes in the independent variable. It is typically plotted on the y-axis of a graph to represent the effect or response to the changes in the independent variable. Choice A 'Independent, x' is incorrect because the independent variable is the variable manipulated by the experimenter and is usually plotted on the x-axis. Choice B 'Independent, y' is incorrect as the independent variable is not plotted on the y-axis. Choice C 'Dependent, x' is incorrect because the dependent variable is not typically plotted on the x-axis in experimental design.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the scientific method, scientists often create models during the hypothesis stage. Creating models at this stage helps visualize or simulate ideas before proceeding to experimentation and data analysis. Models are valuable tools that allow scientists to conceptualize and test their ideas before conducting experiments to gather data and draw conclusions. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Choice B, data analysis, occurs after experiments have been conducted and data has been collected, making it an incorrect choice. Choice C, experimentation, involves conducting tests and observations based on the hypothesis, but the creation of models typically happens before this stage. Choice D, conclusion, is the final step where scientists interpret the results and draw implications, making it an inappropriate step for creating a model.