The scientific method is "flexible". What does that mean? Why is that
important and necessary?

we can reach the same conclusions by applying different experimental and observational procedures

Explanation:

The scientific method is a process that can be summarized in the following steps: 1-to raise a question, 2-to make a hypothesis, 3-to obtain data from observations and/or experiments, and finally, 4-to obtain conclusions that enable to confirm (or reject) the hypothesis. The scientific method is flexible because it is not necessary to follow 'stringent' guidelines in order to reach the same conclusions. In consequence, the predictions derived from such results can be tested again to determine the veracity of the results.

the positions which points up in upward carbon and down in downward carbon are axial

and vice versa holds true for equatorial positions

so the correct answer with labelled diagram will be