In the context of constructing a scientific argument, what is the primary function of a claim?

To present all the raw data collected during an investigation.

To propose a testable explanation for an observed phenomenon.

To describe the step-by-step procedure used to gather evidence.

To summarize the final conclusions of multiple different experiments.

A student claims a drought caused a squirrel population decline. What reasoning best connects this cause and effect?

The drought reduced the availability of acorns, a key food source, leading to starvation.

The number of squirrels counted this year is significantly lower than the number counted last year before the drought.

Squirrels are mammals that are known to live in the local forests and parks where the drought occurred.

Other animal populations in the area, such as birds and insects, were also affected by the lack of rain.

An argument that relies on a single water temperature reading from one day.

An argument supported by data on boat traffic, chemical runoff from farms, and fish population changes.

An argument that links rising water acidity over five years to the algae's known intolerance for acid.

An argument combining historical algae population data with recent surveys of invasive snail species that eat the algae.

Historical records of the city's founding date and original landscape design.

Surveys of beetle populations on both damaged and healthy rose bushes across the city.

A chemical analysis of the soil composition in a single park where some bushes are unhealthy.

A public opinion poll asking residents if they have noticed the unhealthy bushes.