Which of the following is true regarding observations and inferences?

The correct choice highlights that an observation is grounded in facts, which means it is derived from direct sensory experience or measurable data. For example, seeing smoke coming from a building is an observation; it is an undeniable fact based on what is visually perceived.

An inference, on the other hand, involves drawing conclusions or interpretations from those observations, often incorporating assumptions or reasoning. For instance, if one observes smoke, they might infer that there is a fire, which involves additional reasoning beyond the immediate observation.

This distinction helps to clarify the nature of both concepts: observations remain objective and factual, while inferences involve a level of interpretation and assumption based on those facts. This understanding is crucial in fields such as telecommunication, where accurate assessments based on clear observations can lead to effective responses in emergency situations.