Introduction to Science: Principles and Methods

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best illustrates the principle of empiricism in scientific research?

  • Accepting established theories without questioning.
  • Using personal opinions to interpret research findings.
  • Relying on logical arguments to support a new theory.
  • Conducting experiments to gather measurable data. (correct)

A researcher observes that plants grow taller in sunny areas compared to shady areas. According to the scientific method, what is the next logical step?

  • Assume that all plants grow better in sunny areas.
  • Ignore the observation as an isolated incident.
  • Immediately publish the observation in a scientific journal.
  • Formulate a hypothesis about the relationship between sunlight and plant growth. (correct)

Which branch of science is primarily concerned with the study of human societies and their cultures?

  • Chemistry
  • Sociology (correct)
  • Biology
  • Physics

Which area of physics deals with the study of heat and energy transfer?

<p>Thermodynamics (B)</p>
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In chemistry, what is the primary focus of organic chemistry?

<p>The study of carbon-containing compounds. (B)</p>
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During an experiment, a scientist adjusts the amount of fertilizer given to different groups of plants and monitors their growth. What part of the scientific method does this represent?

<p>Experimentation (D)</p>
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Why is skepticism considered a core principle of science?

<p>It encourages questioning and critical evaluation of claims. (C)</p>
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How does methodological naturalism guide scientific inquiry?

<p>By explaining the natural world through natural causes. (D)</p>
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Which discipline primarily applies physics principles to the study of chemical systems?

<p>Physical Chemistry (C)</p>
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A researcher is studying the heredity and variation of inherited traits in pea plants. Which area of biology is this research primarily focused on?

<p>Genetics (B)</p>
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An environmental scientist is investigating the effects of deforestation on local climate patterns and biodiversity. Which field of study does this align with the most?

<p>Environmental Science (B)</p>
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Which social science discipline is concerned with understanding how societies are structured and how social institutions influence human behavior?

<p>Sociology (A)</p>
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In formal sciences, which field provides tools and frameworks for quantitatively analyzing patterns and relationships in data?

<p>Statistics (C)</p>
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An engineer is tasked with designing a new bridge that can withstand specific load and environmental conditions. Which field of applied science is primarily involved?

<p>Engineering (C)</p>
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What distinguishes a scientific theory from a scientific law?

<p>A theory explains <em>why</em> a phenomenon occurs, while a law describes <em>what</em> occurs. (A)</p>
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Which scientific instrument is designed to observe distant objects in the universe, such as galaxies and nebulae?

<p>Telescope (D)</p>
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How does technology generally contribute to the advancement of science?

<p>Technology provides tools and techniques that enable new scientific investigations. (D)</p>
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Which of the following is an example of the impact of science on society?

<p>Improved healthcare through medical advancements (D)</p>
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Which emerging area of science focuses on manipulating materials at the atomic and molecular levels?

<p>Nanotechnology (D)</p>
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Why is interdisciplinary research becoming increasingly important in addressing global challenges?

<p>It fosters collaboration among experts from different fields to tackle complex issues. (B)</p>
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Which of the following best describes how scientific discoveries can lead to new technologies?

<p>Scientific discoveries provide the foundational knowledge that can be applied to create new technologies. (D)</p>
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A team of scientists is using a spectrometer to analyze the chemical composition of a distant star. Which branch of science does this fall under?

<p>Astronomy (C)</p>
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A researcher aims to understand the effects of a new drug on the cardiovascular system. Which field of biology is most relevant to this study?

<p>Physiology (C)</p>
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Flashcards

What is Science?

A systematic approach to understanding the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis.

What is Empiricism?

Emphasizes evidence and observation in scientific inquiry.

What is Rationalism?

Stresses using logic and reason in forming theories.

What is Observation?

Noticing and describing events or processes.

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What is a Hypothesis?

A testable explanation or prediction.

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What are Natural Sciences?

Sciences studying the physical world.

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What is Physics?

Deals with the fundamental laws governing the universe, including matter, energy, space, and time.

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What is Chemistry?

Studies the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter focusing on atoms, molecules, and their transformations.

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Physical Chemistry

Applies physics principles to chemical systems to study chemical processes.

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Analytical Chemistry

Focuses on identifying and quantifying substances in a sample.

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Biochemistry

Explores the chemical processes within living organisms.

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Genetics

The study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics.

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Cell Biology

Examines the structure and function of cells, the basic units of life.

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Evolution

Explains the change in the heritable characteristics of biological populations over successive generations.

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Physiology

Investigates the functions and processes of living organisms and their parts.

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Ecology

Studies the relationships between organisms and their environment.

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Geology

Focuses on the Earth's solid components, such as rocks, minerals, and landforms.

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Oceanography

Studies the oceans and their physical, chemical, and biological aspects.

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Meteorology

Examines the atmosphere and weather phenomena.

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Environmental Science

Investigates the interactions between humans and the environment.

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Psychology

Studies the human mind and behavior.

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Sociology

Examines social structures, institutions, and interactions.

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Economics

Analyzes the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.

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