Build on prior studies is a characteristic of scientific knowledge known as:

• A. Cumulative
• B. Explanatory
• C. General
• D. Normative

Answer: (A)

Cumulative understanding means scientific knowledge grows by stacking new findings onto what has already been established. Researchers design experiments and interpret results in light of existing theories and data, strengthening, refining, or occasionally revising the prior body of evidence. This continuity allows science to build a coherent, expanding picture of how the world works. If a study confirms prior results, it adds weight; if it challenges them, it leads to revisions that still fit within the larger framework. Explanatory knowledge focuses on why things happen, which is a related but different aspect. General refers to broad applicability beyond specific cases, and normative relates to judgments about how things ought to be. Therefore, the feature described—building on prior studies—is cumulative.