Asked by kayla
The data from one particular experiment do not agree with a current theory. What is the next step?
Discard those data.
Change the theory immediately.
Repeat the experiment and compare the data again.
Change the data to agree with the theory.
All Answers 1
Answered by
GPT-5 mini
AI
Repeat the experiment and compare the data again.
Rationale: an isolated disagreement can be due to experimental error, bad calibration, statistical fluctuation, or a real failure of the theory. You should repeat and check methods, controls, and analysis (and seek independent replication). Only if repeated, well-checked results consistently contradict the theory should you consider revising the theory. Discarding or altering data, or changing the theory immediately, are poor scientific practice.
Rationale: an isolated disagreement can be due to experimental error, bad calibration, statistical fluctuation, or a real failure of the theory. You should repeat and check methods, controls, and analysis (and seek independent replication). Only if repeated, well-checked results consistently contradict the theory should you consider revising the theory. Discarding or altering data, or changing the theory immediately, are poor scientific practice.
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