When data supports the hypothesis, which statement best describes the status of the hypothesis?

When data supports the hypothesis, which statement best describes the status of the hypothesis?

• A. The hypothesis is rejected.
• B. The hypothesis is untested.
• C. The hypothesis is considered verified.
• D. The hypothesis becomes a law.

Answer: (C)

Data supporting a hypothesis increases confidence in the idea, so the best way to describe the status is that the hypothesis is verified (supported) by the evidence. The results align with the proposed explanation and haven’t contradicted it in the tests conducted. It isn’t a law, which requires a far broader, universal, and repeatedly validated description of nature, and it isn’t untested, since there is empirical support. It also isn’t rejected, because the data do not conflict with the hypothesis. Keep in mind that scientists use terms like supported or verified because future data could still refine or revise conclusions.

Data supporting a hypothesis increases confidence in the idea, so the best way to describe the status is that the hypothesis is verified (supported) by the evidence. The results align with the proposed explanation and haven’t contradicted it in the tests conducted. It isn’t a law, which requires a far broader, universal, and repeatedly validated description of nature, and it isn’t untested, since there is empirical support. It also isn’t rejected, because the data do not conflict with the hypothesis. Keep in mind that scientists use terms like supported or verified because future data could still refine or revise conclusions.