Final answer:
Quality research often relies on precise laboratory equipment, supplies, and, in many cases, animal research. Animal research is subject to strict ethical standards and, while there are alternatives, it remains a key component in biomedical science for understanding complex biological processes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that quality research depends on laboratory equipment and supplies as well as the animals used is generally true. In the context of scientific research, particularly within fields like biomedical science, the quality of laboratory equipment and supplies greatly affects the precision, accuracy, and safety of experiments. Well-maintained and properly calibrated equipment ensures that experimental conditions are met consistently and that measurement data is reliable.
Furthermore, animal research is often crucial for medical advancements. Animals are used in a wide range of research endeavors, from medical experiments and drug testing to product safety evaluations and psychological studies. It's important to note that animal research is subject to ethical standards and regulations such as the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, which emphasize the humane treatment of laboratory animals and the importance of minimizing their pain and distress.
While there are alternatives to animal research, including virtual trials, computer models, and noninvasive imaging techniques, in many cases animal models are still considered necessary for understanding complex biological processes and for the development of treatments. It's also worth mentioning that larger sample sizes are generally preferred in scientific experiments as they tend to provide more reliable data, and experimentation is not the only valid scientific investigation method.