Scientific Method and Experiment Design

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Questions and Answers

What is the first step in the scientific method?

Make a prediction

Ask a question (correct)

Research

Experiment

What role does a hypothesis play in an experiment?

It summarizes the data collected during the experiment.

It is a statement predicting the outcome based on previous observations. (correct)

It keeps all variables in the experiment constant.

It is a measurement used to collect data.

Which of the following best describes independent variables in an experiment?

Variables that are kept constant to ensure a fair test.

Variables that are purposely changed to observe their effect. (correct)

Variables that change during the course of the experiment.

Variables that are affected by other changes in the experiment.

Which statement correctly defines controlled variables?

They are the conditions that remain the same throughout the experiment. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if the results of an experiment do not support the hypothesis?

Make a new prediction and conduct further experiments. Signup and view all the answers

When interpreting experimental data, what should be checked first?

If the data answers the original question and aligns with the hypothesis. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the scientific method, why is it important to spread the word about results?

To contribute to the body of scientific knowledge and peer review. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of gathering evidence during an experiment?

To support or refute the hypothesis based on observation. Signup and view all the answers

Which step directly follows making a prediction in the scientific method?

Experiment Signup and view all the answers

What is the dependent variable in an experiment?

The outcome that is measured as a response to changes. Signup and view all the answers

Which step is NOT part of the engineering design process?

Release Signup and view all the answers

What defines an atom?

Atoms are the smallest units found inside an element Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about valence electrons is TRUE?

Atoms prefer to have a full valence electron shell of 8 Signup and view all the answers

What best defines a molecule?

A group of two or more atoms that have bonded chemically Signup and view all the answers

How do compounds differ from molecules?

Compounds must consist of different types of elements Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of pure substances?

Can be broken down into simpler substances Signup and view all the answers

What is a controlled variable in an experiment?

The feature that is kept constant Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about mixtures is correct?

Mixtures can consist of two or more compounds that do not chemically bond Signup and view all the answers

Which group of elements is known as 'rebellious' due to their bonding behavior?

Groups 3-12 Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Scientific Method

Scientists use a series of steps called the scientific method to ensure their work is reliable.
Steps include: asking a question, researching, making a prediction, experimenting, collecting results, and sharing results (or repeating if the prediction was incorrect).

Designing Experiments

Experiments follow the scientific method.
Experiments require a clear question, a hypothesis (a statement about what's expected based on prior knowledge), constants (factors kept the same), an independent variable (the factor changed), and a dependent variable (the outcome measured).
The conclusion states whether the hypothesis was supported by the results.

Interpreting Data

Scientific evidence is the data gathered during an experiment.
To interpret data, check if it answers the question and supports or refutes the hypothesis.

Types of Variables and Controls

Experiments involve variables, which can be changed.
Three main types of variables: independent variable (changed by the scientist), dependent variable (measured as a result), and controlled variables (kept the same).
Controls in an experiment help assess the validity of the results.

Timelines

Timelines display events in order.
To understand a timeline: read the title, look for the time periods (days, months, years, decades, centuries), and note the events and their sequence.

Engineering Design Process

Engineers use a design process to solve problems.
Steps of the engineering design process: ask, research, imagine, select and plan, create, test and evaluate, and improve.
These steps can be repeated multiple times until a satisfactory design is reached.

Atoms and Matter

Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter.
An atom has a nucleus (containing protons and neutrons) and electrons orbiting the nucleus.
Atoms bond to form molecules, which can be solids, liquids, or gases.

Electrons and Electrical Current

Electrons are negatively charged particles, in constant motion within atoms
Electrons generate electrical current.
Atoms bond through the interactions of their electrons.
Atoms of different materials have different numbers of electrons.

Valence Electrons

Valence electrons are the electrons in an atom's outermost shell.
These electrons determine how atoms bond to form new substances.
Scientists use the periodic table to determine the number of valence electrons.
Atoms strive to have eight valence electrons.

Molecules

A molecule is a group of two or more atoms bonded together.
The types and number of atoms determine the size and shape of a molecule.

Elements, Compounds and Mixtures

Elements are composed of one type of atom and cannot be broken down further.
Compounds are made from two or more different types of elements chemically bound together.
Molecules are groups of atoms chemically bound together that can form compounds.
Mixtures are composed of two or more compounds and/or elements that do not form chemical bonds.

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Description

This quiz assesses your understanding of the scientific method and how to design experiments effectively. You'll need to explain the steps involved in the scientific method, types of variables, and the importance of data interpretation. Test your knowledge and reinforce your learning in this essential scientific discipline.