Final answer:
The question involves an application of deductive reasoning, where a specific conclusion is logically drawn from a general premise. Deductive reasoning is a common scientific method used to draw specific inferences from general truths. It differs from inductive reasoning, which makes generalizations based on observations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reasoning used in the statement 'Whales are mammals. A beluga is a type of whale. Therefore, a beluga is a mammal.' is an example of deductive reasoning. In deductive reasoning, conclusions are based on the logical implications of premises that are assumed to be true. In this case, the general principle that all whales are mammals leads to the specific conclusion that a beluga, being a type of whale, is also a mammal. This form of reasoning is often used in scientific approaches to advance knowledge, where conclusions from deductive reasoning may become premises for further deductive or inductive reasoning.
As a contrast, inductive reasoning involves making generalizations based on specific observations. For example, the statement 'Every lion you've seen on TV hunts gazelles, therefore all lions hunt gazelles.' is an example of inductive reasoning. Here, a general rule is inferred from specific instances or observations.