Chapter 1, Problem 7RQ

How many experiments are necessary to invalidate a scientific hypothesis?

To determine

The number of experiments that are necessary to invalidate a scientific hypothesis.

Answer to Problem 7RQ

Only one experiment with contradictory results is necessary to invalidate a hypothesis.

Explanation of Solution

A hypothesis is a type of proposed explanation by consideration of some evidence. A hypothesis is also referred as an educated guess that is used to give a logical analysis of observation.

When a hypothesis is verified experimentally and has been proved to hold good each time without exception, then it becomes a law or principle. However, if a hypothesis fails only once, then it becomes invalidated.

Conclusion:

Therefore, only one experiment with contradictory results is necessary to invalidate a hypothesis.