Which term best describes a critical part of the scientific method that involves checking results?

The term that best describes the critical part of the scientific method involving checking results is verification. Verification refers to the process of confirming that the results obtained from experiments are accurate, repeatable, and reliable. This step ensures that findings can withstand scrutiny and that conclusions drawn from the experiments are supported by consistent evidence.

Verification can occur through various means, such as repeating experiments, peer reviews, or conducting similar studies to see if the same results are achieved. This process is fundamental to the scientific method because it establishes the credibility of the findings and allows for the advancement of scientific knowledge based on verified results.

In contrast, experimentation involves the actual conducting of tests to observe outcomes, while a hypothesis represents the initial educated guess or prediction that leads to further testing. Observation refers to the gathering of data throughout the experimentation process. While all these elements are crucial to the scientific method, verification specifically focuses on the validation and confirmation of results, making it the best term to describe that critical aspect.