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Questions and Answers
What does the scientific method provide for scientists?
What does the scientific method provide for scientists?
- A method to prove hypotheses without testing
- A reliable method to investigate the natural world (correct)
- A way to create unrepeatable experiments
- A system to ignore variables
Who is credited with the first documented recording of the scientific method?
Who is credited with the first documented recording of the scientific method?
- Albert Einstein
- Galileo Galilei
- Sir Francis Bacon (correct)
- Isaac Newton
Which of the following statements accurately defines an independent variable?
Which of the following statements accurately defines an independent variable?
- The variable that is kept constant in an experiment
- The variable that is manipulated in an experiment (correct)
- The variable that is measured in an experiment
- The variable that does not affect the outcome
What is the dependent variable in the hypothesis 'If water availability is increased, fruit production will also increase'?
What is the dependent variable in the hypothesis 'If water availability is increased, fruit production will also increase'?
What is the primary purpose of the scientific method?
What is the primary purpose of the scientific method?
Which of the following is considered a key element of the scientific method?
Which of the following is considered a key element of the scientific method?
What is an example of a hypothesis based on the scientific method?
What is an example of a hypothesis based on the scientific method?
What is the first step of the scientific method?
What is the first step of the scientific method?
Which of the following correctly describes an operational definition?
Which of the following correctly describes an operational definition?
What occurs after analyzing the data in the scientific method?
What occurs after analyzing the data in the scientific method?
What is the purpose of peer review in the scientific community?
What is the purpose of peer review in the scientific community?
In the provided example, what was the hypothesis regarding married and single men?
In the provided example, what was the hypothesis regarding married and single men?
How many subjects did the psychologist choose for the happiness survey?
How many subjects did the psychologist choose for the happiness survey?
What might the psychologist explore after analyzing the original experiment's results?
What might the psychologist explore after analyzing the original experiment's results?
Flashcards
Scientific Method
Scientific Method
A systematic approach to research, involving observation, experimentation, and analysis, used by scientists to gain knowledge about the natural world.
Hypothesis
Hypothesis
An educated guess about the outcome of an experiment, often stated as a relationship between variables.
Independent Variable
Independent Variable
The factor that is manipulated or changed in an experiment to observe its effect on the dependent variable.
Dependent Variable
Dependent Variable
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Control Group
Control Group
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Experimental Group
Experimental Group
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Data Collection
Data Collection
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Scientific Theory
Scientific Theory
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Observation
Observation
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Experiment
Experiment
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Data Analysis
Data Analysis
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Peer Review
Peer Review
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Publication of Research
Publication of Research
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Study Notes
The Scientific Method
- The scientific method is a structured process for observing the natural world.
- It's applicable across scientific disciplines and can be repeated.
- The method offers a reliable way to investigate natural phenomena.
Origin and Purpose
- The scientific method has roots in ancient philosophy.
- Sir Francis Bacon (1561-1626) is credited with documenting the method.
- The purpose is to provide a system for scientific discovery, ensuring reliable data and explanations.
Key Elements
- Hypothesis: An educated guess about the outcome of an experiment, including independent and dependent variables.
- Independent variable: The factor deliberately changed in an experiment.
- Dependent variable: The factor measured in response to the independent variable.
- Example hypotheses:
- "If human growth factor is applied to cells, there will be at least a twofold increase in cell division." (Independent variable: human growth factor; Dependent variable: increase in cell division)
- "If water availability is increased, fruit production will also increase." (Independent variable: water availability; Dependent variable: fruit production)
Scientific Method Steps
- Observe: Notice details about the natural world.
- Question: Develop a question based on observations or prior knowledge.
- Hypothesis: Formulate an educated prediction about the outcome.
- Experiment: Conduct a controlled test, varying the independent variable.
- Analysis: Evaluate the results and determine if the hypothesis is supported or rejected.
Peer Review and Publication
- Scientists publish data through peer review.
- Fellow scientists review the work to ensure accuracy and reliability.
- Publication allows for wider scientific community engagement.
Scientific Method Example (Psychology)
- A psychologist investigates relationship dynamics and happiness.
- Operational definitions are crucial: defining terms like "happiness" with measurable outcomes (e.g., a happiness scale).
- Example hypothesis: "If men can be single or married, married men will have a greater score of happiness on a self-reported scale."
- The experiment involves collecting data from different relationship status groups.
- Analysis determines if the hypothesis is supported or refuted.
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