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Key Ways to Differentiate Hypothesis Testing from Discovery Biology Methods
Hypothesis-driven science tests predictions via experiments; discovery science observes without prior hypotheses—not less structured or law-leading—core methodological contrast for General Biology certification exam preparation.
Question
Select all the statements that accurately differentiate hypothesis-driven science from discovery science.
A. Discovery science always leads to the formulation of scientific laws.
B. Hypothesis-driven science is less structured than discovery science.
C. Hypothesis-driven science requires the formulation of hypotheses before experimentation.
D. Both hypothesis-driven and discovery science rely on the scientific method exclusively.
E. Discovery science often involves observations without prior hypotheses.
Answer
C. Hypothesis-driven science requires the formulation of hypotheses before experimentation.
E. Discovery science often involves observations without prior hypotheses.
Explanation
Hypothesis-driven science follows a structured approach where researchers propose specific, testable predictions (hypotheses) based on prior observations or theories, then design controlled experiments to gather data supporting or refuting them, enabling causal inference through falsification as in Mendel’s pea plant ratios or drug efficacy trials. Discovery science, by contrast, emphasizes systematic, unbiased data collection and description—such as genome sequencing, species cataloging, or ecological surveys—without preconceived hypotheses to uncover patterns that later inspire questions, providing foundational datasets for hypothesis formulation. Inaccurate statements include A (discovery generates data, not laws directly), B (hypothesis-driven imposes rigorous structure via controls), and D (discovery prioritizes exploration over strict method steps, though both use empirical observation).