Final answer:
Critical thinking in science relies on evaluating empirical evidence that can be tested and verified, not on common sense beliefs. Hence, the correct answer to the question is b. how are the findings related to common sense beliefs? as it is the only option that lies outside the domain of scientific methodology.
Step-by-step explanation:
Critical thinking involves careful review and analysis of information to form a judgment. In the context of the provided question, the only option that does not directly involve a critical thinking process is b. how are the findings related to common sense beliefs? This is because common sense beliefs are not empirical evidence and cannot be tested using the scientific method. Critical thinking in science requires the evaluation of evidence that can be tested and verified, rather than relying on intuition or widely-held beliefs.
Critical thinking questions often involve checking the validity of evidence, considering if findings can be duplicated by independent research (question a), evaluating the quality of evidence (question c), and assessing the nature and quality of the tests conducted (question d). These processes can lead to reliable conclusions and advancements in knowledge.
The correct answer to the question is therefore b. how are the findings related to common sense beliefs? since this question does not align with the empirical and objective nature of scientific inquiry and critical thinking.