Scientific Method Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the first step of the Scientific Method?

Observation/Research
Collect and Analyze Results
Problem/Question (correct)
Experiment

What does the hypothesis in the Scientific Method represent?

A possible answer to the problem (correct)
A summary of the research findings
A conclusion based on data
The materials needed for the experiment

Why is it important to collect and analyze results during an experiment?

To retest and verify the results obtained (correct)
To ensure results can be compared to other experiments
To modify the hypothesis for future experiments
To confirm the procedure is correct

What should be included when formulating a hypothesis?

A predictably measurable outcome (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of communicating results after conducting an experiment?

To present findings to an audience (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which step involves careful observation and research on the topic?

Observation/Research (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of the Experiment step in the Scientific Method?

Developing a procedure that includes measurable outcomes (B) Signup and view all the answers

After concluding the results, what should be considered for future studies?

Improvements to the procedure and recommendations for further study (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the independent variable in John's bread experiment?

The amount of sugar used (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the control group in an experiment?

A group that is exposed to the same conditions as the experimental group, except for the variable being tested (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the dependent variable represent in John's experiment?

The size of the loaf of bread (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why does John need to maintain constants in his experiment?

To ensure that observed changes in the bread can be attributed to the amount of sugar (C) Signup and view all the answers

How many trials will John conduct for each sugar variable?

3 trials (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which action is NOT a part of the experimental process as described?

Ignoring the influence of the control group (C) Signup and view all the answers

What was the amount of sugar used in John's control group?

50g (C) Signup and view all the answers

What conclusion did John draw from his experiment regarding the control group?

The control worked the best, but not significantly better than 100g of sugar (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was Bart’s hypothesis regarding the effect of microwaves on mice?

Mice exposed to microwaves will be extra strong. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which group serves as the control group in Bart’s experiment?

The group of non-microwaved mice. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What are the independent and dependent variables in Bart's experiment?

Independent variable - microwaves; Dependent variable - strength. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following could be considered a constant in Bart's experiment?

The size of the block used for testing. (A), The amount of food provided to all mice. (B), The time of day the experiment was conducted. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What should Bart’s conclusion be based on the experiment's results?

Microwave exposure does not significantly change the strength of mice. (D) Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

The Scientific Method

A series of steps used to investigate natural occurrences
Starts with a problem/question
Includes observation/research
Requires the formulation of a hypothesis
Involves conducting an experiment
Requires collecting and analyzing results
Ends with a conclusion
Communicates the results

The Scientific Method Steps

Problem/Question: Develop a question or problem that can be solved through experimentation
Observation/Research: Make observations and research your topic of interest.
Formulate a Hypothesis: Predict a possible answer to the problem or question.
Experiment: Develop and follow a procedure.
Collect and Analyze Results: Modify the procedure if needed. Confirm the results by retesting. Include tables, graphs, and photos.
Conclusion: Include a statement that accepts or rejects the hypothesis.
Communicate the Results: Be prepared to present the project to an audience. Expect questions.

Bart Simpson's Experiment

Problem/Question: Do microwaved mice get extra strong?
Hypothesis: Mice exposed to microwaves will be extra strong.
Control Group: Mice not exposed to microwaves.
Independent Variable: Microwave exposure.
Dependent Variable: Strength (ability to push a heavy block of wood).
Constants: Same block of wood, same food, time of day, approximate same size mice, etc.
Conclusion: Microwave exposure does not significantly change the strength of mice.