Oil is a powerful source of energy used for cars, machines, and many other purposes. While studying sources of energy that could replace the use of oil, a student thinks about solar power, wind power, nuclear power, and electric batteries. The students asks,"Which type of source will waste the least energy and provide the most energy in all situations?"Which best describes why a scientist would ask a different question than this one?
Answer
A
The question asks about subjective personal preferences regarding energy.
B
The question focuses on the objective measurements of amounts of energy.
C
The question has too wide of a focus, as though all situations can be studied at once.
D
The question is focused on the future and finding new answers about changing needs.
Explanation
A scientist would narrow the question because energy sources perform differently depending on the situation, such as the location, available technology, and intended use. Asking which source wastes the least energy and provides the most in “all situations” is too broad to test as one question. Choice C describes this overly wide focus.
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