Question

Which of the following is not part of the scientific method used in studying frog deformities?

1) Observations of nature leading to questions about those observations
2) Understanding the social and political consequences of the study
3) Use of previous knowledge to develop possible answers to the questions (hypotheses)
4) Evaluation of competing hypotheses by means of experiments and careful observation
5) Using the results of those experiments and observations to modify the hypotheses or to draw conclusions about the natural world

Answer 1

Understanding the social and political consequences of a study on frog deformities is not part of the scientific method.

Step-by-step explanation:

The element that is not part of the scientific method used in studying frog deformities and any scientific endeavor, in general, is understanding the social and political consequences of the study. Scientific methodology focuses on observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and conclusion drawing. It is an objective process aimed at understanding the natural world, and while it can inform social and political policies, evaluating these impacts is not part of the core scientific method itself.

Moving through the steps, scientists begin by making observations, such as noticing a high number of frogs with deformities. This leads to questions that are refined through research into existing knowledge. Hypotheses are then formulated and subsequently tested through experiments. These findings are used to support or contradict the hypotheses, which can lead to further questions and investigations.