Science Discussion and Pseudoscience Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What does the Germ Theory propose?

Specific microscopic organisms cause specific diseases. (correct)

All microorganisms are harmful to human health.

Specific diseases are caused by genetic mutations.

Viruses are the only pathogens responsible for diseases.

What does the Ideal Gas Law describe?

The relationship between pressure, volume, and temperature of a gas. (correct)

The behavior of gases at very low pressures.

The volume of gases in relation to solid matter.

How gases react with liquids in chemical reactions.

Which statement characterizes scientific laws?

They can change with new experimental evidence.

They explain why phenomena occur.

They are always presented in mathematical formulas.

They are descriptions of relationships among observable phenomena. (correct)

What is a common human error relating to science known as cognitive dissonance?

The misalignment between beliefs and actions. Signup and view all the answers

How is a theory different from a scientific law?

A theory explains phenomena, while a law describes relationships. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes pseudoscience?

It claims to adhere to scientific principles but lacks falsifiability. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Collision Theory' in chemistry indicate?

Particles must collide with adequate energy to react. Signup and view all the answers

What effect does confirmation bias have on scientific inquiry?

It leads individuals to disregard evidence that contradicts their beliefs. Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'C' in CONPTTF stand for?

Consistent Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic distinguishes a scientific theory from everyday use of the word?

It is a well-substantiated explanation supported by evidence. Signup and view all the answers

What best defines an observation in a scientific context?

The action of observing, which can be opinion-based or factual. Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'F' in CONPTTF indicate regarding scientific claims?

They should be falsifiable or testable. Signup and view all the answers

How should pseudoscience be characterized compared to true science?

Pseudoscience is based on anecdotal evidence. Signup and view all the answers

What is required for an observation to be considered a fact?

It must be verified many times to gain scientific acceptance. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a hypothesis?

A preliminary explanation that can be tested. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a scientific theory?

The cell theory in biology. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

What is Science?

Science is a systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the universe.
The foundation of scientific inquiry is characterized by the acronym CONPTTF: Consistent, Objective, Natural, Predictable, Testable, Tentative, Falsifiable.

Difference between Observation and Fact

Observation: The act of watching or perceiving something; can be subjective and lacks inherent knowledge until interpreted.
Fact: A verified observation accepted as true based on repeated confirmation.

Scientific Theories vs. Everyday Theories

Scientific theories provide well-substantiated explanations of natural phenomena, supported by extensive evidence, enabling predictions.
Theories answer the question "why," while hypotheses are preliminary testable predictions.
Examples:
- Cell Theory: All living organisms consist of cells.
- Germ Theory: Microscopic organisms cause diseases.
- Atomic Theory: Matter is made of atoms.

Scientific Laws

Laws describe consistent relationships among observable phenomena and summarize how aspects of the natural world behave under specific conditions.
Laws reflect what occurs rather than why.
Examples:
- Ideal Gas Law: Describes the relationship between pressure, volume, and temperature of gases.
- Newton's Laws of Motion: Fundamental principles of dynamics, such as F=ma.

Key Differences: Law, Theory, Fact, Hypothesis

Fact: Confirmed observation.
Law: Descriptive formula based on repeated observations.
Theory: Comprehensive explanation of phenomena.
Hypothesis: Initial testable statement that predicts outcomes.

Cognitive Dissonance in Science

Cognitive dissonance refers to conflicting beliefs and actions leading to mental discomfort, often resulting in denial or rationalization of contrary evidence.

Confirmation Bias

The tendency to focus on information that supports pre-existing beliefs, leading to skewed data interpretation and memory.

Dunning-Kruger Effect

A cognitive bias where individuals with limited knowledge overestimate their competence in a subject, contrasting with their actual performance.

What is Pseudoscience?

Pseudoscience refers to claims or practices that assert to be scientific but lack adherence to the scientific method and cannot be reliably tested or falsified.

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Engage in a comprehensive discussion about the definitions and misconceptions surrounding science and pseudoscience. This quiz will assess your understanding of what qualifies as science and what does not. Prepare for an insightful exploration of these critical concepts.