Question

A student hypothesizes that a solar panel will produce more electricity when it is painted black.
After testing, she finds the painted panel produces the same amount of electricity as before.

Why is the hypothesis still valuable?
Responses

A It proves that energy cannot be measured.It proves that energy cannot be measured.

B It provides information that can be used in future investigations.It provides information that can be used in future investigations.

C It shows that solar energy does not exist.It shows that solar energy does not exist.

D It means solar panels will always need paint.

Answer 1

B — It provides information that can be used in future investigations.

Even a disconfirmed hypothesis yields useful data: it rules out that painting the panel black increases output, helps refine ideas, suggests other variables to test, and contributes to scientific knowledge. Options A, C and D are incorrect.