Why is it essential to formulate a hypothesis before conducting an experiment?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Formulating a hypothesis before conducting an experiment is crucial because it helps guide the investigation by suggesting what the investigator should be looking for. A hypothesis serves as a prediction or an educated guess about what might happen in the experiment, providing a clear direction for the research process. It allows the investigator to focus on specific variables and outcomes, making the experiment more organized and effective. Choice A is incorrect because the primary purpose of a hypothesis is not to boost an investigator's reputation but to guide the research. Choice C is incorrect as formulating a hypothesis is not primarily about impressing funders but about setting a clear direction for the study. Choice D is incorrect because the hypothesis is not meant to dictate which results to keep based on preconceived notions but to guide the investigation and allow for unbiased interpretation of results.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most effective procedure in testing whether the drug is responsible for the recovery is to ensure that neither the subjects nor the investigators know which subjects are given the drug and which are given the placebo. This method is known as a double-blind study, which helps eliminate biases and ensures that the results are reliable and not influenced by expectations or beliefs. By keeping both the subjects and investigators unaware of who is receiving the drug or placebo, the study can accurately determine the true impact of the drug on recovery. Choice B is incorrect as it only prevents the subjects from knowing which treatment they are receiving, allowing for potential bias from the investigators. Choice C is also incorrect as it allows for potential bias from the subjects. Choice D is incorrect as full knowledge of treatment allocation can introduce bias and affect the study's validity.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Using a computer does not eliminate all subjectivity and potential bias from an experiment. While computers can assist in data collection and analysis, the design and execution of the research study can still be influenced by subjectivity and bias introduced by researchers. Researchers need to recognize their potential biases and take measures to reduce them throughout the research process. Choice A is correct as computers are valuable for managing large datasets. Choice B is correct as computers can efficiently work with instruments and record data. Choice D is correct as computers excel in performing complex calculations faster and more accurately than humans.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The main problem with this experiment is that there are too many variables that are not being controlled for. The investigator is only changing one variable (temperature) while there are other variables at play such as humidity, exposure to light, and potential differences in the material itself. Without controlling or accounting for these additional variables, it would be difficult to determine if any observed differences in durability are solely due to temperature. Choice A is incorrect because the issue is not solely about the number of subjects but about the lack of control over variables. Choice B is not the main problem as the order of placement may not significantly impact the results. Choice D is incorrect as the experiment lacks proper control over variables, which is a crucial aspect of good experimental procedure.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The best course of action is to publish the results anyway, acknowledging that her hypothesis seems to have been incorrect. Science relies on accurate reporting and transparency, even if the results do not align with the original hypothesis. This allows for further discussion, analysis, and potentially new hypotheses to be developed based on the findings. It is essential in scientific research to report both positive and negative results to contribute to the body of knowledge and advance understanding in the field. Choice B is incorrect because persisting with the same experiment to force results to align with the hypothesis goes against scientific integrity and may lead to biased conclusions. Choice C is incorrect as changing the hypothesis after obtaining results is not scientifically sound and undermines the credibility of the research. Choice D is incorrect because science embraces the possibility of experimental results contradicting hypotheses, as this provides valuable insights for refining theories and expanding scientific knowledge.