Achemist is hired by a major petroleum company to do research into developing a gasoline mixture that burns more efficiently in automobile engines. this is best described as research.

applied

Explanation:

According to my research on different research methodology, I can say that based on the information provided within the question this is best described as applied research. This type of research focuses on solving a specific and practical problem, in this situation that practical problem is finding a solution in order for gasoline to burn more efficiently.

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