Identify the source of knowledge—deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, or the scientific approach—most prominently used in the following examples:
a. After extensive observation of reactions, Lavoisier concluded that combustion is a process in which a burning substance combines with oxygen. His work was the death blow to the old phlogiston theory of burning.
b. Dalton, after much reflection, concluded that matter must consist of small particles called atoms. His early assumptions became the basis for the atomic theory.
c. Later scientists took Dalton’s assumptions, made deductions from them, and proceeded to gather data that confirmed these assumptions. They found support for the atomic theory.
d. Knowing that radioactive substances constantly give off particles of energy without apparently reducing their mass, Einstein developed the formula E = mc
2
for converting matter into energy.
e. Accepting Einstein’s theory, Fermi carried on experimentation that resulted in splitting the atom.
f. After studying reinforcement theory, a teacher hypothesizes that using a tutorial computer program will lead to superior achievement in arithmetic. She devises a study in which the tutorial is used with two sixth-grade classes, whereas conventional materials are used with two other sixth-grade classes.
Leave a Reply