Scientific Research Methods

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best exemplifies the principle of objectivity in scientific research?

Acknowledging potential biases and taking steps to minimize their impact on the study's findings. (correct)
Selecting data that aligns with popular theories and disregarding conflicting information.
Interpreting data to support a pre-existing hypothesis regardless of contradictory evidence.
Relying solely on personal opinions and beliefs when analyzing experimental results.

A researcher conducts an experiment and obtains results that contradict the accepted hypothesis. According to the scientific method, what is the MOST appropriate next step?

Adjust the experimental procedure until the results align with the hypothesis.
Revise the hypothesis or experimental design based on the new evidence. (correct)
Seek out other researchers who support the original hypothesis and collaborate with them.
Ignore the contradictory results and proceed with the original conclusions.

Which branch of science is MOST directly concerned with understanding the properties and interactions of matter at the atomic level?

Earth Science
Biology
Physics
Chemistry (correct)

Which of the following statements BEST describes the relationship between a scientific theory and a scientific law?

A scientific theory is a broad explanation supported by evidence, while a scientific law describes a specific relationship or pattern. (C) Signup and view all the answers

In an experiment studying the effect of fertilizer concentration on plant growth, what is the independent variable?

The concentration of fertilizer applied to the plants. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is reproducibility considered a core principle of scientific research?

It allows other researchers to verify the results and conclusions of a study. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a well-designed experiment?

Subjective interpretation of data to support the hypothesis. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What role does mathematics play in scientific inquiry?

It provides a framework for describing and quantifying relationships in the natural world. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which activity is MOST directly associated with the 'communication' step of the scientific method?

Sharing research findings through publications and presentations. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why are peer-reviewed publications considered to be the most reliable sources of scientific information?

They have been evaluated by experts to ensure quality, validity, and originality. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is Science?

A systematic and organized approach to acquiring knowledge about the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis.

Objectivity

Striving for impartiality and minimizing bias in observations and interpretations.