Imagine a scientist observes that a plant kept in the dark grows very tall and thin, while an identical plant in sunlight grows shorter and greener. What is the most likely first step this scientist will take next in their investigation?
Options
Immediately announce a new law about plant growth.
Design an experiment to test the effect of light on plant growth.
Conclude that light is not important for plants.
Write a book about their general observations.
Explanation
After an observation (plants growing differently based on light), a scientist typically forms a hypothesis (e.g., "light affects plant growth and color") and then designs an experiment to systematically test this hypothesis. This experiment would involve controlling variables, such as providing different amounts of light, to see the effect. Announcing a law (Option 1) is premature without experimentation. Concluding that light is not important (Option 3) contradicts the observation. Writing a book (Option 4) is not the next investigative step.