Which statement is regarded as a testable hypothesis in the context of scientific inquiry?

Disable ads (and more) with a premium pass for a one time $4.99 payment

Enhance your knowledge for the ASU PHY101 Exam. Prepare with multiple choice questions, flashcards, and explanations. Get exam ready with ease!

The statement about the Moon having a significant impact on Earth's tides is regarded as a testable hypothesis because it leads to specific predictions that can be empirically investigated. In scientific inquiry, a testable hypothesis must be structured so that experiments or observations can be conducted to either support or refute it.

In the case of the Moon's influence on tides, scientific research can be conducted to measure tidal patterns, compare them during different lunar phases, and analyze gravitational effects based on the Moon’s position relative to Earth. The relationship is grounded in physics, particularly gravitational theory, and has been demonstrated through scientific measurements and observations, making it a concrete basis for investigation.

The other statements, while they may provoke interesting discussions or imply beliefs, do not lend themselves as easily to empirical testing. For example, claiming that "Jupiter is the best planet" is subjective and lacks a clear criterion for measurement. The assertion about bacteria not surviving in extreme temperatures could potentially be testable but requires further specification of temperature ranges and environmental conditions to construct a proper hypothesis. Lastly, the idea that "aliens built the pyramids" ventures into the realm of speculation and conspiracy rather than scientific inquiry, as it lacks empirical support and cannot be tested in a traditional scientific framework.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy