29. A team of scientists uses the Hubble Space Telescope to search for evidence of planets orbiting distant stars. Which kind of investigation are they carrying out?
Answer: C
They are carrying out an observational study.
The scientists are engaging in an observational study as they are using the Hubble Space Telescope to collect data about planets orbiting distant stars without manipulating any variables in a controlled environment.
A) Laboratory experiment
A laboratory experiment involves controlled conditions where variables are manipulated to observe effects. In this case, the scientists are not conducting experiments in a lab setting; instead, they are observing celestial objects in space.
B) Controlled experiment
A controlled experiment requires the researcher to manipulate one or more variables while keeping others constant to determine cause-and-effect relationships. The investigation by the scientists does not fit this definition, as they are observing rather than manipulating the environment.
C) Observational study
An observational study is characterized by the collection of data without direct intervention from the researchers. The scientists using the Hubble Space Telescope to gather information about distant planets exemplifies this type of investigation, as they are observing natural phenomena.
D) Constructing a model
Constructing a model involves creating a representation of a system or phenomenon to simulate its behavior or predict outcomes. The scientists are not creating models; they are collecting observational data from actual astronomical entities.
Conclusion
The correct answer is an observational study, as it accurately describes the method employed by the scientists in their search for planets around distant stars. All other options fail to capture the essence of the investigation, which does not involve manipulation or controlled settings but rather focuses on gathering data through observation.