The Scientific Method

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Questions and Answers

Why is it important to communicate experimental results to the scientific community?

  • To allow others to independently verify and test the results, strengthening their validity. (correct)
  • To ensure the original researcher receives sole credit for the discovery.
  • To keep the findings secret from competing research groups.
  • To expedite the publication process in scientific journals.

What should a researcher do if the data collected during an experiment does not support their initial hypothesis?

  • Adjust the data to fit the hypothesis.
  • Develop a new hypothesis based on what was learned and test it. (correct)
  • Claim the experiment was a success, regardless of the data.
  • Disregard the data and continue with the experiment.

What is the primary difference between a hypothesis and a theory in the context of scientific research?

  • A hypothesis is a testable educated guess, while a theory is a well-substantiated explanation supported by repeated testing. (correct)
  • A hypothesis is a proven fact, while a theory is a guess.
  • A theory is a specific prediction, while a hypothesis is a broad explanation.
  • A theory is only used in theoretical sciences like physics, while a hypothesis is used in experimental sciences like biology.

Why is the process of attempting to disprove a hypothesis essential in scientific research?

<p>To strengthen the validity of a hypothesis by eliminating alternative explanations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of iteration in the scientific method?

<p>A repetitive cycle of hypothesis development, testing, and analysis to refine understanding. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies the initial 'Notice something interesting' step in the scientific method?

<p>Observing that a particular plant species is thriving in a shaded area, unlike its counterparts in direct sunlight. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher observes that the average temperature in a city has increased by 2 degrees Celsius over the past decade. Which of the following represents an inference based on this observation?

<p>The observed temperature increase is a consequence of increased greenhouse gas emissions from local industries. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to formulate multiple working hypotheses when addressing a scientific problem?

<p>To avoid becoming fixated on a single explanation that may be incorrect. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a testable hypothesis regarding the effect of sunlight on plant growth?

<p>Increased exposure to sunlight results in a measurable increase in the growth rate of sunflower plants. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A geologist discovers a new type of rock formation. Which of the following actions represents the 'Collect observations' step in the scientific method?

<p>Conducting chemical analyses, measuring physical properties, and documenting the rock's features. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the scientific method, what is the primary difference between observation and inference?

<p>Observation is a direct sensory experience, while inference is a conclusion based on that experience. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A student observes that a certain type of mold grows more rapidly on bread left at room temperature compared to bread stored in the refrigerator. Which of the following is a valid hypothesis the student could develop?

<p>Lower temperatures inhibit the growth rate of the mold. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a phenomenon that can be studied using the scientific method?

<p>It is based on personal beliefs. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Analyze Data

The step where you gather a new set of observations during your experiment.

Communicate Results

Sharing your experimental results with other scientists for verification.

Hypothesis

An educated guess to formulate an experimental approach.

Theory

The best explanation for a phenomenon, after repeated successful testing.

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Iteration

A repetitive process of testing, analyzing, and refining a hypothesis.

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Scientific Method

A systematic approach to explain natural phenomena, based on observations accessible to everyone.

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Observation

Witnessing a natural event/phenomena using senses (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste) to describe it.

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Inference

Conclusions based on observations that go beyond what is directly sensed; interpretations or assumptions.

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Notice Something Interesting

The initial step: identifying an unexplained natural phenomena that sparks curiosity.

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Collect Observations

Studying a phenomena without immediately interpreting, to formulate a focused research question.

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Propose Multiple Working Hypotheses

Developing multiple possible explanations ('educated guesses') to answer a research question.

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Test Hypotheses

Developing and conducting experiments to evaluate the proposed explanations.

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Study Notes

  • The scientific method is a systematic approach used to explain unexplained phenomena observed through our senses.
  • It can only study natural phenomena that can be sensed by everyone.

Observation vs. Inference

  • Observation involves witnessing a natural event or phenomena.
  • Senses are used to characterize what we perceive.
  • Inferences are conclusions that go beyond direct sensory input.
  • Our brains process observations into inferences, sometimes without us realizing it.
  • When solving scientific problems, careful observations should always be prioritized.

Steps in the Scientific Method

  • The scientific method is a process used to solve scientific problems or explain observations.
  • It includes the following steps:
    • Notice something interesting: Identify something unexplained using curiosity and skepticism.
    • Collect observations: Study the phenomena to formulate a research question.
    • Propose multiple working hypotheses: Develop possible answers or explanations for the research question.
    • Test hypotheses: Develop an experiment to test your possible explanations and disprove any hypotheses.
    • Analyze data: Collect new observations (data) while conducting the experiment.
    • Communicate results: Share your findings with the scientific community for testing and verification.

Hypothesis vs. Theory

  • Hypotheses are educated guesses that help refine an experimental approach to a research question.
  • If a hypothesis survives repeated attempts to disprove it through experimentation, it can evolve into a theory.
  • Theories represent the best possible explanation for the phenomena of interest.

Iteration

  • If data does not support a hypothesis, it is necessary to develop a new hypothesis based on what was learned from the first attempt.
  • The new hypothesis is tested, the new results will need to be analyzed.
  • The iterative process is fundamental to the scientific method.

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