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Questions and Answers
A researcher observes a new species of bacteria that appears to consume plastic. According to the scientific method, what should be their immediate next step?
A researcher observes a new species of bacteria that appears to consume plastic. According to the scientific method, what should be their immediate next step?
- Formulate a hypothesis about the bacteria's plastic-consuming behavior. (correct)
- Publish the observation in a scientific journal to gain recognition.
- Immediately begin developing a commercial product to degrade plastics.
- Conclude that this bacteria will solve the world's plastic pollution problem.
Which of the following best describes the distinction between a scientific theory and a scientific law?
Which of the following best describes the distinction between a scientific theory and a scientific law?
- Scientific laws are applicable only in specific conditions, while theories are universally applicable.
- A scientific law is a guess, while a scientific theory is a proven fact.
- A scientific law explains why something happens, while a theory describes what happens.
- A scientific law describes what happens in nature, while a theory explains why it happens. (correct)
In an experiment studying plant growth, a scientist uses precise instruments to measure the height of seedlings in millimeters. Which concept does this action primarily emphasize?
In an experiment studying plant growth, a scientist uses precise instruments to measure the height of seedlings in millimeters. Which concept does this action primarily emphasize?
- Scientific theories
- Ethical conduct
- Scientific communication
- Scientific measurements (correct)
A pharmaceutical company is testing a new drug. What ethical consideration is most important when recruiting human participants for clinical trials?
A pharmaceutical company is testing a new drug. What ethical consideration is most important when recruiting human participants for clinical trials?
During an experiment, a researcher notices that changing variable 'A' consistently affects variable 'B'. However, they do not yet understand the underlying mechanism. What can they formulate based on this observation?
During an experiment, a researcher notices that changing variable 'A' consistently affects variable 'B'. However, they do not yet understand the underlying mechanism. What can they formulate based on this observation?
Two research teams independently discover the same phenomenon but interpret the data differently. What is the most appropriate next step to resolve this discrepancy, according to scientific practices?
Two research teams independently discover the same phenomenon but interpret the data differently. What is the most appropriate next step to resolve this discrepancy, according to scientific practices?
A scientist is preparing to present research findings at an international conference. Which action would be most effective for ensuring clear scientific communication?
A scientist is preparing to present research findings at an international conference. Which action would be most effective for ensuring clear scientific communication?
A researcher alters data to support a favored hypothesis. Which ethical principle has been violated?
A researcher alters data to support a favored hypothesis. Which ethical principle has been violated?
Flashcards
Branches of Science
Branches of Science
Categories of scientific study, including natural and formal sciences.
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
Sciences that study natural phenomena like biology, physics, and earth science.
Scientific Method
Scientific Method
A systematic approach to acquiring knowledge through observation, experimentation, and analysis.
Scientific Theory
Scientific Theory
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Scientific Law
Scientific Law
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International System of Units (SI)
International System of Units (SI)
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Scientific Communication
Scientific Communication
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Scientific Ethics
Scientific Ethics
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Study Notes
Branches of Science
- Science is a systematic process organizing knowledge about the universe through testable explanations and predictions.
- Science is broadly classified into natural sciences (studying natural phenomena) and formal sciences (studying abstract concepts).
- Natural sciences are further divided into biological sciences (living organisms), physical sciences (non-living matter and energy), and Earth and space sciences (Earth and universe).
- Formal sciences encompass mathematics and logic, focusing on abstract structures and relationships.
Scientific Method
- The scientific method systematically acquires knowledge involving:
- Observation: identifying a phenomenon.
- Questioning: formulating a question about the observation.
- Hypothesis: proposing a possible explanation.
- Prediction: anticipating the outcome if the hypothesis is correct.
- Experimentation: testing the prediction through controlled experiments.
- Analysis: evaluating results and drawing conclusions.
- Conclusion: determining if the hypothesis is supported by the evidence.
Scientific Theories and Laws
- Scientific laws concisely describe observed phenomena, stating relationships between variables.
- Scientific theories comprehensively explain observed phenomena, unifying various observations and predictions.
- Theories can change with new evidence, while laws are often considered stable.
Scientific Measurements and Units
- Precise and accurate scientific measurements are crucial for reproducibility.
- Units are standardized quantities for measuring physical quantities.
- The International System of Units (SI) is a globally recognized standard measurement system.
- Precision and accuracy are essential for scientific measurement.
Scientific Communication
- Effective scientific communication is key for sharing knowledge and collaboration.
- Scientists use peer-reviewed publications to share findings with the scientific community.
- Presentations, conferences, and technical reports aid in scientific communication.
Scientific Ethics
- Ethical conduct is essential in scientific research.
- Ethical considerations include data integrity, informed consent, and responsible resource use.
- Plagiarism, data falsification, and fabrication seriously violate scientific ethics and are crucial for maintaining public trust.
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Description
Explore the main branches of science: natural, formal, biological, physical, and Earth sciences. Understand the scientific method, including observation, questioning, hypothesis formation and prediction. Learn how science builds knowledge.
