Science as a Process: Hypothesis vs. Theory

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Questions and Answers

Which statement accurately describes the relationship between a hypothesis and a theory?

A hypothesis is a proposed explanation leading to a testable prediction, while a theory is an evidence-based overarching explanation. (correct)
A theory is a specific, testable prediction, while a hypothesis is a broad explanation.
Theories guide specific investigations, while hypotheses organize broad scientific fields.
Hypotheses are formed after a theory has been proven true through experimentation.

How does new evidence impact scientific knowledge?

New evidence may lead to the modification of existing ideas. (correct)
New evidence is only accepted if it supports pre-existing hypotheses.
New evidence is disregarded if it contradicts established beliefs.
New evidence reinforces existing theories without causing changes.

What role does testing hypotheses play in the scientific process?

Testing hypotheses is a minor aspect, mainly for preliminary data gathering.
Testing hypotheses is only relevant in experimental studies, not observational ones.
Testing hypotheses confirms established theories without further implications.
Testing hypotheses is central to the scientific process. (correct)

Which of the following best exemplifies an observational study?

A scientist surveys bird migration patterns without intervening in their natural behavior. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of evolutionary biology, what describes 'pattern'?

The characteristics of a population changing over time, as species are related by common ancestry. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is required for hypotheses to 'become' theories?

The hypothesis must be supported by a large body of evidence and tested in multiple ways. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary distinction between an experimental study and an observational study?

Experimental studies involve altering aspects and observing the effects, while observational studies only observe without intervention. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What statement describes a critical attribute of a scientific theory?

A theory should be general enough that many testable hypotheses can be related to it. (A) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of evolutionary biology, what does 'mechanism' refer to?

The phenomenon where individuals with certain heritable traits produce more offspring than those without those traits. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How might the scientific method be described as 'self-correcting'?

New evidence can lead to revisions of existing knowledge. (B) Signup and view all the answers

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Flashcards

Hypothesis

A proposed explanation leading to a testable prediction.

Theory

Evidence-based overarching explanation for a general class of phenomena; supported by lots of tested evidence.

Pattern

Characteristics of a population change over time, indicating species are related by common ancestry.

Mechanism

Individuals with certain heritable traits produce more offspring than those without those traits.

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Observational Study

The researcher studies but does not alter what occurs (simply observes).

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Experimental Study

The researcher alters some aspect and then observes, including a control group.

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Scientific Method

The scientific method constantly evolves as new evidence emerges.

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Study Notes

Science builds knowledge, and the scientific method is flexible

Science as a Process

Science is a process because new ideas are modified as new evidence appears.
Science is self-constructing.
The scientific method is an ongoing process.
The real process of science is rooted in testing.
Testing hypotheses is at the heart of science.

Hypothesis vs. Theory

Compare and use the terms 'hypothesis' and 'theory' appropriately in their scientific context.
Formulate a hypothesis based on a set of observations.
Hypothesis: a proposed explanation that leads to a testable prediction.
Theory: evidence-based overarching explanations for a general class of phenomena.
Theories must be general enough, so many testable hypotheses relate to it.
Theories are supported by a large body of evidence tested in multiple ways.
Hypotheses do not just become theories; theories provide a framework.
A hypothesis is a proposed explanation, which leads to a testable prediction.
A theory is an evidence-based overarching explanation for a general class of phenomena.
Theories must be general enough so that many testable hypotheses can be related to them.
A theory provides a framework for a hypothesis.

Pattern vs. Mechanism

Patter is the characteristics of a population change over time (species are related by common ancestry).
Mechanism is when individuals with certain heritable traits produce more offspring than those without those traits.

Observational Study vs. Experimental Study

Observational Study: the researcher studies but ultimately does not alter what occurs (simply observes).
Experimental Study: the researcher alters an aspect and then observes (usually includes a control along with the treatment group).