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Questions and Answers
Which of these fields is NOT considered a social science?
Which of these fields is NOT considered a social science?
Astronomy is the study of Earth's systems, including geology and meteorology.
Astronomy is the study of Earth's systems, including geology and meteorology.
False (B)
What is the primary focus of economics?
What is the primary focus of economics?
Economics studies how people use limited resources to meet unlimited wants and needs.
_____ studies the distribution and use of power in society.
_____ studies the distribution and use of power in society.
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Match the following scientific fields with their respective areas of study:
Match the following scientific fields with their respective areas of study:
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The scientific method is a linear process, with each step followed in a strict order.
The scientific method is a linear process, with each step followed in a strict order.
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Which of the following is NOT a key step in the scientific method?
Which of the following is NOT a key step in the scientific method?
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What is the purpose of a controlled variable in an experiment?
What is the purpose of a controlled variable in an experiment?
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Match the type of reasoning with its description:
Match the type of reasoning with its description:
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A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world is called a ______.
A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world is called a ______.
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Which of these branches of science focuses on the study of living organisms?
Which of these branches of science focuses on the study of living organisms?
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Describe the difference between a scientific theory and a scientific law.
Describe the difference between a scientific theory and a scientific law.
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A hypothesis is a statement of fact that can be proven true through experimentation.
A hypothesis is a statement of fact that can be proven true through experimentation.
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Flashcards
Scientific Method
Scientific Method
A systematic approach for understanding nature through observation and experimentation.
Observation
Observation
Noticing a phenomenon or pattern in nature as the first step of the scientific method.
Hypothesis
Hypothesis
A testable explanation or prediction about an observation or phenomenon.
Independent Variable
Independent Variable
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Dependent Variable
Dependent Variable
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Scientific Theory
Scientific Theory
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Inductive Reasoning
Inductive Reasoning
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Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
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Earth Science
Earth Science
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Astronomy
Astronomy
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Psychology
Psychology
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Economics
Economics
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Scientific Ethics
Scientific Ethics
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Study Notes
Scientific Method
- Science is a systematic approach to understanding the natural world.
- It involves observation, experimentation, and the formulation and testing of hypotheses.
- The scientific method is a cyclical process, not a linear one. It repeatedly revisits and refines hypotheses and conclusions.
Key Steps in the Scientific Method
- Observation: Noticing a phenomenon or pattern in nature.
- Questioning: Formulating a specific question about the observation.
- Hypothesis: Proposing a testable explanation for the observed phenomenon. A hypothesis is a prediction about what will happen in a specific situation.
- Prediction: Stating what will be observed if the hypothesis is correct.
- Experimentation: Designing a controlled experiment to test the prediction. This involves manipulating variables to see how they affect the outcome.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Gathering data from the experiment, and analyzing it to determine if the data supports the hypothesis.
- Conclusion: Determining if the results support or reject the hypothesis. A conclusion should explain the findings and identify any limitations.
Types of Variables in Experiments
- Independent Variable: The variable that is manipulated in the experiment.
- Dependent Variable: The variable that is measured in the experiment.
- Controlled Variables: Factors that are kept constant throughout the experiment to ensure that any change in the dependent variable is solely due to the independent variable.
Scientific Theories and Laws
- Scientific Theory: A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that can incorporate facts, laws, inferences, and tested hypotheses. Theories are subject to revision as new knowledge emerges.
- Scientific Law: A descriptive generalization about how some aspect of the natural world behaves under specific conditions. Laws summarize, but do not explain natural phenomena.
Scientific Reasoning
- Inductive Reasoning: Drawing a general conclusion from specific observations.
- Deductive Reasoning: Applying a general principle to a specific situation to predict an outcome.
Branches of Science
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Natural Sciences: Study the natural world, including:
- Physics: Studies matter, energy, and their interactions.
- Chemistry: Studies the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter.
- Biology: Studies living organisms and their interactions.
- Earth Science: Studies the Earth's systems, including geology, meteorology, and oceanography.
- Astronomy: Studies celestial bodies and the universe.
-
Social Sciences: Study human behavior and society, including:
- Psychology: Studies the mind and behavior.
- Sociology: Studies human social structures and interactions.
- Economics: Studies how people use limited resources to satisfy unlimited wants and needs.
- Political Science: Studies the distribution and use of power in society.
- Anthropology: Studies human origins, societies, and cultures.
Scientific Ethics
- Scientists have ethical responsibilities, including:
- Honesty and integrity in research.
- Avoiding plagiarism and fraud.
- Proper treatment of research subjects.
- Openness and transparency in research practices.
- Responsible use of scientific knowledge.
- Accuracy and precision are crucial parts of scientific work.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Explore the essential steps of the scientific method, including observation, hypothesis formulation, and experimentation. This quiz will test your understanding of how the scientific method enables systematic exploration of the natural world. Brush up on key concepts and refine your knowledge of scientific inquiry.
