An ecologist hypothesizes that predation by a particular owl species is the major factor controlling the population of a particular rabbit species. The first step in testing this hypothesis would be to determine

The correct answer is - whether owl eats the rabbits.

Explanation:

A hypothesis is a proposed answer for an unexplained event that doesn't fit into the current acknowledged logical hypothesis. The essential thought of a hypothesis is that there is no pre-decided result.

The Hypothesis can be proved or disproved by scientific research that has various steps but initiailly testing the hypothesis is essential:

- Making assumptions.

- Stating the research and null hypotheses

- Selecting the sampling pattern and specifying the test statistic.

- calculating the test statistic.

-Making a decision and interpreting the results.

Thus, the first step after forming a hypothesis is to check or test the hypothesis which is null hypothesis -whether owl eats the rabbits.

b

explanation:

desert perennials often survive by remaining dormant during dry periods of the year, then springing to life when water becomes available. most annual desert plants germinate only after heavy seasonal rain, then complete their reproductive cycle very quickly.