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What Distinguishes Discovery from Hypothesis-Based Scientific Methods?
Master the core difference: Discovery science gathers data without hypotheses (e.g., genome projects), while hypothesis-driven science tests predictions via experiments—essential contrast for General Biology certification exam success.
Question
Which statement accurately differentiates discovery science from hypothesis-driven science?
A. Discovery science involves collecting and analyzing data without preconceived hypotheses, while hypothesis-driven science involves formulating and testing hypotheses.
B. Discovery science uses controlled experiments, while hypothesis-driven science avoids experimental manipulation.
C. Discovery science relies on deductive reasoning, while hypothesis-driven science relies on inductive reasoning.
D. Discovery science always leads to scientific theories, while hypothesis-driven science leads to scientific laws.
Answer
A. Discovery science involves collecting and analyzing data without preconceived hypotheses, while hypothesis-driven science involves formulating and testing hypotheses.
Explanation
Discovery science focuses on unbiased observation, description, and data accumulation to reveal patterns in nature, such as genome sequencing projects or biodiversity surveys, generating comprehensive datasets that later inspire hypotheses without initial predictions or controls. Hypothesis-driven science, conversely, follows the scientific method by proposing testable explanations (hypotheses) derived from prior observations, then designing controlled experiments to falsify or support them, as in drug efficacy trials or genetic mutation effects. Option B reverses experimental roles (discovery often lacks controls), C misassigns reasoning (hypothesis-driven uses deduction from general principles, discovery uses induction from specifics), and D confuses outcomes (both approaches contribute to laws/theories based on evidence accumulation).