Which of the following reasons best explains why a scientist would want to study rock formations and living organisms in previously unexplored water habitats? a. to discover new aspects of the natural world b. to explain recently observed phenomena c. to test the predictions of current theories d. to test the conclusions of prior investigations

The correct answer is option (A) to discover new aspects of the natural world.

The study of rock formations and living organisms in previously unexplored water habitats helps a scientist to discover the newer aspects of the natural world. The unexplored water habitats are the best source to understand the newer aspects of the aquatic bodies like the new species of plants or animals, factors affecting the aquatic life and the different types interactions in the habitats. The study of rock also helps in the study of plants and animals, which were once a part of the habitat, now in the form of fossils.

Thus, the study of rock formations cannot explain the recently observed phenomena as they help in the study of fossils. The study of living organisms in previously unexplored water habitats cannot be applied to test the conclusions of prior investigations and test the predictions of current theories as they remained unexplored.