The Scientific Method Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of experimental investigations?

Qualitative measures and observations

Subjective analysis of different outcomes

Quantitative measures and one variable (correct)

Descriptive details and multiple variables

What is required of a hypothesis?

It must be untestable.

It must be testable and predict an outcome. (correct)

It needs to be proven correct.

It should have multiple solutions.

Which of the following statements about observations is true?

Observations are always subject to interpretation.

Observations should only be qualitative.

Observations can be both qualitative and quantitative. (correct)

Observations do not require data collection.

What characterizes descriptive investigations?

They use primarily qualitative observations and can have multiple variables. Signup and view all the answers

In an experiment, what type of variable is manipulated by the scientist?

Independent variable Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes making an inference?

It is a logical explanation that is tentative and subject to change. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between comparative and experimental investigations?

Comparative investigations can include both qualitative and quantitative observations. Signup and view all the answers

Which step in the scientific method follows data collection?

Retest Signup and view all the answers

What role do control variables play in an experiment?

They are used for comparison. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes an independent variable?

The factor changed by the scientist. Signup and view all the answers

What is the proper sequence in the scientific method?

Identify a problem, state observations, form a hypothesis. Signup and view all the answers

What must be true about data collected in an experiment?

Data can be qualitative or quantitative. Signup and view all the answers

What are the essential components of a valid experiment?

Two groups (control and experimental) and one manipulated variable. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of variable types, how is the dependent variable defined?

It is the outcome that the scientist measures. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the retesting step in the scientific method?

To ensure the experiment can be replicated and results verified. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best summarizes the conclusion in an experiment?

It is the answer to the hypothesis based on collected data. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Scientific Method

The scientific method is a structured way to explore the world and answer questions about the natural world.
Scientists make observations and use their senses and measurements to gather qualitative and quantitative data.
Observations lead to questions and the identification of a problem.
An inference is a logical explanation for an observation, based on knowledge, experience, and opinion.

Types of Investigations

Descriptive Investigations: Primarily use qualitative observations, are open to interpretation, and generally have multiple variables.
Comparative Investigations: Can include both qualitative and quantitative observations, are less subjective than descriptive investigations, and have fewer variables.
Experimental Investigations: Focus primarily on quantitative measures, are completely objective, have only one variable, and can be repeated by other scientists.

Hypothesis

A suggested solution to a problem, testable, and predicts an outcome.
Often phrased as "If...then..." or "I believe that...".

Experiment

A procedure designed to test a hypothesis.
Contains variables or factors that are tested and controlled.
There are three types of variables:
- Control (Constant): Factors kept constant to ensure a fair comparison.
- Independent (Manipulated): The factor the scientist changes.
- Dependent (Responsive): The factor the scientist measures or observes.

Valid Experiment

A valid experiment requires two groups: a control group and an experimental group.
It should have only one manipulated variable.

Data

Results of the experiment, can be quantitative (numbers) or qualitative (qualities).
Must be organized into charts, tables, or graphs to be usable.

Retesting

Multiple trials with each independent variable are recommended to increase the validity of the experiment.

Conclusion

The answer to the hypothesis based on the data obtained from the experiment.
Determines whether the hypothesis was supported or refuted.
Often uses the CER method:
- Claim: A statement that answers the research question.
- Evidence: Data from the experiment that supports the claim.
- Reasoning: Explanation of how the evidence supports the claim.

Steps to Solve a Problem Using the Scientific Method

Identify a problem.
State observations about the problem.
Form a hypothesis about the problem (If...then...).
Design an experiment to test the hypothesis.
Collect data.
Retest.
Form a conclusion.

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Description

Explore the key aspects of the scientific method, a structured approach to understanding the natural world. Learn about different types of investigations, such as descriptive, comparative, and experimental, and how to formulate hypotheses for effective research.