Final answer:
A scientist's new idea leads to hypothesis formulation followed by thorough testing through experiments. Contradicting results require hypothesis refinement or even the development of a new one, reflecting science's inherently iterative and self-correcting nature.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a scientist develops a new idea based on observations, the next steps involve scientific inquiry and hypothesis testing as part of the scientific method. This systematic approach includes proposing a tentative explanation known as a hypothesis, which is then rigorously tested through experiments. Experiments aim to validate the hypothesis; however, unexpected results may lead to the modification or rejection of the original hypothesis.
It's essential for scientists to keep an open mind, as scientific ideas are open to change. If the hypothesis test results contradict the initial idea, scientists refine the hypothesis or develop a new one. It's this adaptability that helps science advance, with scientific theories being strengthened, expanded, or occasionally replaced—known as paradigm shifts. Moreover, sharing results with the research community is crucial for further validation and development of scientific understanding.
Science thrives on continuously challenging and revising ideas to build a more accurate picture of our world, particularly as new technologies allow for previously unobservable phenomena to be explored.