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Questions and Answers
What is the FIRST step of the experimental method?
A hypothesis is merely a guess.
False
What must a good hypothesis do?
Make logical sense and follow from what is already known.
A ______ group is compared with an experimental group in a controlled experiment.
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Match each variable type to its definition:
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Which step follows forming a hypothesis in the scientific method?
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Standardized variables can be changed during the experiment.
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What is the final step of the scientific method?
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Predictions express the ______ that will be obtained from testing a hypothesis.
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Study Notes
Observation and Hypothesis
- Observation involves gathering information through the senses, crucial as the first step in the experimental process.
- A hypothesis is a testable explanation or theory derived from observations, serving as the second step in the experimental method.
- Formulating a good hypothesis requires logical reasoning based on existing knowledge, rather than random guessing.
Predictions
- Predictions express expected outcomes based on the hypothesis, guiding the testing process.
- They provide a statement that can be examined through experimentation to validate the hypothesis.
Scientific Method Steps
- The scientific method comprises several key stages:
- Make an observation to identify a phenomenon.
- Formulate a hypothesis to explain the observation.
- Conduct tests to examine the hypothesis.
- Collect, organize, and analyze the resulting data.
- Draw conclusions based on the analysis.
- Communicate the findings to share results with others.
Testing the Hypothesis
- Controlled experiments are utilized to test hypotheses, focusing on changing one factor at a time to ascertain its effect.
- Control groups serve as a baseline for comparison, ensuring that only the experimental variable is altered while standardized variables remain constant.
Types of Variables
- Independent Variable: The factor manipulated during the experiment, representing the change being tested.
- Dependent Variable: The outcome being measured, reflecting the effect of changes made to the independent variable.
- Standardized Variables: Conditions that are kept constant throughout the experiment to ensure credible results.
- Observational data is essential for testing; if a phenomenon cannot be observed, it cannot be scientifically examined.
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Description
This quiz explores the fundamental concepts of observation and hypothesis formation as vital components of the experimental method in Environmental Science. Understand the importance of each step and how they contribute to scientific inquiry. Test your knowledge on definitions and the roles of observations and hypotheses.
