Question

Which of the following is least likely to be a scientific experiment?

A.
Leo places one plant in direct sunlight and two others in the shade. He observes them for 10 days.
B.
Carmen changes the weight on the end of a pendulum. She notes each time how long it takes the pendulum to cycle.
C.
Byron checks the pH level in 10 water samples. He maps the reading to the location where he took the sample.
D.
Emma trims the stems of a bouquet of flowers. She places the flowers in a vase on the dining table.

Answer 1

Option D, where Emma trims the stems of flowers and places them in a vase, is the least likely to be a scientific experiment as it lacks the structured approach and control of variables necessary for experimental science.

Step-by-step explanation:

Of the options provided, D. Emma trims the stems of a bouquet of flowers and places them in a vase on the dining table is the least likely to be considered a scientific experiment. This action lacks the methodical observation, control of variables, and structured methodology that characterize a scientific experiment.

Scientific experiments involve testing hypotheses and manipulating one or more conditions while controlling for others to observe the effects of the changes. For example, Leo's plant observations would likely involve a hypothesis around the effect of sunlight on plant growth while controlling other factors such as water and soil conditions (A. controlled experiment).