A megalodon was a giant prehistoric shark. Research on fossilized teeth in the 1950s showed the teeth to be 11,000–24,000 years old. However, modern research used new testing methods that showed the teeth to be over five million years old. What should this error show students about performing scientific research?(1 point)

Question

A megalodon was a giant prehistoric shark. Research on fossilized teeth in the 1950s showed the teeth to be 11,000–24,000 years old. However, modern research used new testing methods that showed the teeth to be over five million years old. What should this error show students about performing scientific research?(1 point)

Responses

Students should not be concerned about their source’s date, as an error like that found in the the megalodon study rarely occurs.
Students should not be concerned about their source’s date, as an error like that found in the the megalodon study rarely occurs.

Students may use older research sources if they are easier to locate than new studies.
Students may use older research sources if they are easier to locate than new studies.

Students should only use data sources published since 2010 because anything older than this includes inaccurate information.
Students should only use data sources published since 2010 because anything older than this includes inaccurate information.

Students should look for the most recent scientific studies when finding sources of research on their topics.

Answer 1

Students should look for the most recent scientific studies when finding sources of research on their topics. This error with the megalodon study shows that new testing methods and technologies can lead to significant changes in our understanding of past research findings. It is important for students to use the most up-to-date and reliable sources in order to ensure the accuracy of their own research.