Questions: Numerous cases of microcephaly have been observed in the newborn babies of women who were infected with Zika virus during pregnancy. This led to the proposed hypothesis that Zika virus was causing the birth defects. This is an example of Multiple Choice inductive reasoning. hypothesis testing. deductive reasoning. theory development.

The answer is the first one: inductive reasoning.

Explanation for each option:

1. Inductive reasoning: This involves making generalizations based on specific observations. In this case, observing numerous cases of microcephaly in newborns of women infected with Zika virus during pregnancy leads to the general hypothesis that the Zika virus is causing the birth defects. This is an example of inductive reasoning.

2. Hypothesis testing: This involves designing and conducting experiments or studies to test a specific hypothesis. While the situation described involves forming a hypothesis, it does not describe the process of testing it.

3. Deductive reasoning: This involves starting with a general statement or hypothesis and examining the possibilities to reach a specific, logical conclusion. The scenario described does not start with a general statement but rather with specific observations leading to a general hypothesis.

4. Theory development: This involves creating a comprehensive explanation based on a wide range of evidence and observations. The scenario described is at the stage of forming a hypothesis, not yet developing a full theory.

Summary: The scenario described is an example of inductive reasoning, where specific observations lead to the formation of a general hypothesis.