A tentative prediction about the relationship between two variables is: A. a confounding of variables. B. an operational definition. C. a theory. D. a hypothesis.

Short Answer

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Answer: Hypothesis

Step by step solution

01

Option A: Confounding of variables

A confounding variable is an outside influence that affects the relationship between the independent and dependent variables in a study. Confounding variables may distort the true relationship between the variables being studied. In this case, we are looking for a term that represents a tentative prediction about the relationship between two variables, not a confounding factor.
02

Option B: Operational definition

An operational definition is a clear, detailed, and measurable definition of a variable in a study. It allows researchers to precisely measure a concept, behavior, or event in the study. This term does not describe a tentative prediction about the relationship between two variables.
03

Option C: Theory

A theory is a broad explanation for a phenomenon that is based on a wide range of evidence and has been extensively researched and tested. It is used to provide an explanation and make predictions about natural phenomena. A theory is much broader in scope than a tentative prediction about the relationship between two variables.
04

Option D: Hypothesis

A hypothesis is a proposed explanation or tentative prediction about the relationship between two variables. It is generally based on theoretical knowledge, background information, and observed patterns. A hypothesis makes specific, testable predictions and can be supported or refuted through research and experimentation.
05

Conclusion

Based on the provided definitions of each term, the correct answer is D. A tentative prediction about the relationship between two variables is a hypothesis.

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