Question 4

The student should repeat the experiment using a different thermometer to confirm the results.

To ensure the accuracy of the observed results, the student should repeat the experiment with a different thermometer. This step is crucial in verifying whether the initial measurements were affected by potential inaccuracies in the thermometer used.

A) Change the results of the experiment to show a decrease in the freezing point of water.

Changing the results to show a decrease in the freezing point is unethical and scientifically invalid. Data should always reflect actual observations, and altering results undermines the integrity of the scientific process.

B) Conclude that antifreeze actually increases the freezing point of water.

Concluding that antifreeze increases the freezing point based on one observation is premature. The student needs to gather more evidence through repeated trials before making any conclusions about the behavior of antifreeze in water.

C) Repeat the experiment using a different thermometer to confirm the results.

Repeating the experiment with a different thermometer is a sound approach to verify the initial findings. Variations in thermometer calibration can lead to inaccurate readings, and using an alternative device can help determine if the observed increase in freezing point was a result of measurement error.

D) Include the appearance of the solution but omit the freezing point in the lab report.

Omitting the freezing point in the lab report is inappropriate, as it disregards essential data from the experiment. All observations, including unexpected results, should be documented to provide a complete account of the experiment and facilitate further analysis.

Conclusion

The best course of action for the student is to repeat the experiment with a different thermometer to confirm the observed results. This approach helps to ensure the reliability of the data and determine whether the initial findings were accurate or a result of measurement error. Other options either compromise scientific integrity or fail to address the need for validation of the results.