Question

Gorillas inhabit the tropical rain forests of Africa. With humans constantly expanding into their habitats, gorillas are now an endangered species. In order to increase the chances of their survival, a team of scientists has been conducting an observational field study for the past 5 years in the rain forest of Cameroon. In this study, everything that affects the wellbeing of this population of gorillas, including the resources they need, reproduction, health and social behaviors are closely monitored and recorded. Is this study a case of discovery science or hypothesis-driven science? Explain why by highlighting the differences between the two types.

Answer 1

Answer of the provided question is-

This study is a case of discovery science.

In discovery science , scientists make observations of some quantitative and qualitative data/informations and afterthat scientists make conclusions based upon the observable data/informations.

In hypothesis driven science , Scientists first set a principle or hypothesis , then they test this hypothesis for a particular condition to get a conclusion.

The study mentioned in the question is a case of discovery science because here, scientists are observing and recording various factors that may affect the wellbeing of gorilla populations. And afterthat scientists will use this observed data to conclude the risk factors that are responsible for the reduction of gorilla populations and various protective measures to increse their survivability can also be concluded.