In general,conservation involves the ability to understand that changes in physical arrangement: A do not change an object's basic properties. B affect an object's inherent features. C determine the total volume needed for a given task. D must be considered before the characteristics of an object can be determined.

## Step 1<br />The problem is about understanding the concept of conservation in psychology. Conservation refers to the understanding that certain properties of an object, such as volume, mass, and number, remain the same even when its physical arrangement changes. This concept is a fundamental stage in cognitive development, typically developed during the concrete operational stage, according to Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />Option A, "do not change an object's basic properties," aligns with the definition of conservation. It implies that despite changes in the physical arrangement of an object, its fundamental properties remain unchanged.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Option B, "affect an object's inherent features," is not consistent with the concept of conservation. This option suggests that the inherent features of an object are altered by changes in its physical arrangement, which is contrary to the principle of conservation.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Option C, "determine the total volume needed for a given task," is irrelevant to the concept of conservation. This option seems to refer to a practical application of volume measurement rather than the psychological concept of conservation.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />Option D, "must be considered before the characteristics of an object can be determined," is also not directly related to the concept of conservation. This option seems to imply a need for prior consideration of changes, which is not a part of the conservation concept.