Chapter 5, Problem 9STP

Summary Introduction

To write:

What a scientist does if the experimental data does not support his or her hypothesis.

Introduction:

A hypothesis is a reasonable explanation of a phenomenon or a situation. Imagination, creativity, curiosity, and logic are major elements of the way biologists approach their research. When a biologist performs an experiment, they investigate the reasons for the occurrences of a phenomenon in a controlled setting in order to test a hypothesis.

Explanation of Solution

Scientist has to follow the scientific methods step-by-step. The methods followed by the scientist are- observe, make a hypothesis, perform the experiment, collect data, and analyze results. When a hypothesis is supported by data from additional investigations, usually it is considered valid and is accepted by the scientific community. If the hypothesis is not approved, then the hypothesis is revised and additional investigations are conducted.

Conclusion

Thus, when a hypothesis is not supported, the experimental data are refined and an alternative hypothesis is tested.