1 - Nature of Science and Investigation Design

Question 1

Define:

scientific method

Answer 1

A process to study observations, test hypothesis, and draw conclusions.

The scientific method typically includes steps such as making observations, conducting background research, forming a hypothesis, conducting experiments, analyzing results, and drawing conclusions.

Question 2

Explain:

What does it mean for science to be interdisciplinary?

Answer 2

It integrates knowledge from multiple fields to solve complex problems.

Fields like biochemistry, astrophysics, and environmental science combine principles from different disciplines to expand scientific understanding.

Question 3

Identify:

What is the final step in the scientific method?

Answer 3

Drawing conclusions.

In this step, researchers analyze the results, interpret the data, and determine whether the hypothesis is supported or rejected based on the evidence.

Question 4

Identify:

What are the 3 main types of scientific investigations?

Answer 4

1. Descriptive
2. Comparative
3. Experimental

Descriptive - involve observations

Comparative - analyze differences or similarities

Experimental - test hypotheses through controlled experiments

Question 5

Explain:

What is the purpose of making generalizations in science?

Answer 5

To form broader conclusions based on patterns in data.

Generalizations help scientists predict future events and refine scientific theories.

Question 6

True or False:

Scientific knowledge is always absolute and unchanging.

Answer 6

False

Scientific knowledge evolves with new evidence and advancements in technology, making it a dynamic process.

Question 7

Fill in the blank:

A well-supported explanation of natural phenomena is a _______ _______.

Answer 7

scientific theory

Scientific theories, such as the theory of evolution, are based on extensive evidence and repeated testing over time.

Question 8

Define:

scientific law

Answer 8

A statement describing consistent natural phenomena.

Examples include Newton’s laws of motion and the law of gravity. Unlike theories, laws describe what happens, not why.

Question 9

Explain:

How do scientific laws and theories differ?

Answer 9

Laws describe what happens; theories explain why.

Laws predict natural behaviors (e.g., gravity), while theories provide explanatory frameworks (e.g., relativity).

Question 10

Explain:

Why is peer review important in science?

Answer 10

To ensure the accuracy, quality, and credibility of research.

Peer-reviewed research is evaluated by experts in the field, ensuring the reliability of findings before publication.

Question 11

Explain:

What are the differences between repetition and replication in scientific research?

Answer 11

• Repetition involves repeating experiments by the same researcher.
• Replication means independent researchers confirm the results.

Question 12

Explan:

What is the difference between independent and dependent variables?

Answer 12

• Independent variable - variable that is manipulated or changed by the researcher in an experiment.
• Dependent variable - variable that is measured or observed in an experiment.

For example, in a plant growth experiment, sunlight (independent variable) affects the height of plants (dependent variable).

Question 13

Define:

hypothesis

Answer 13

A testable statement predicting the outcome of an investigation.

A good hypothesis is specific, measurable, and based on prior knowledge or research.

Question 14

Define:

control group

Answer 14

Group of subjects that do not receive the treatment being tested.

Control groups are essential to compare the effects of the variable being tested and to ensure the experiment’s validity.

Question 15

Explain:

What is scientific notation used for?

Answer 15

Expressing very large or small numbers concisely.

Example: The speed of light (300,000,000 m/s) is written as 3.0 × 10⁸ m/s in scientific notation.

Question 16

Identify:

What do significant figures represent?

Answer 16

The precision of a measurement.

Significant figures indicate how accurate a measurement is based on the precision of the measuring tool.

Question 17

Identify:

What is the standard system of measurement in science?

Answer 17

The International System of Units (SI).

SI units ensure consistency in scientific research, including meters (length), kilograms (mass), and seconds (time).

Question 18

Explain:

What is dimensional analysis used for?

Answer 18

It converts units and ensures measurement consistency.

Scientists use dimensional analysis to compare different unit systems and verify calculations in physics and chemistry.

Question 19

Fill in the blank:

Accurate data collection helps reduce ______ in scientific investigations.

Answer 19

error

Properly calibrated equipment and consistent procedures minimize human and instrument-related errors.

Question 20

Identify:

What does error analysis involve?

Answer 20

Addressing factors affecting accuracy and reliability.

Common errors include instrument calibration, data entry mistakes, and environmental variability.

Question 21

True or False:

Random errors can be eliminated by improving experimental design.

Answer 21

False

Random errors occur due to uncontrollable fluctuations (e.g., human reaction time, environmental conditions). They can be reduced by taking multiple measurements and averaging results, but they cannot be eliminated entirely.

Question 22

Explain:

Why are multiple trials conducted in experiments?

Answer 22

To increase the reliability and accuracy of results.

Repeating trials reduces the impact of outliers and random errors.

Question 23

Identify:

What is the role of controls in scientific experiments?

Answer 23

To provide a baseline for comparison.

Controls help isolate the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable.

Question 24

Describe:

How does randomization help reduce bias in experiments?

Answer 24

By ensuring all variables are evenly distributed across groups.

Randomization prevents systematic errors and increases the reliability of conclusions.

Question 25

# Explain: Why is sample size **important** in experiments?

Answer 25

Larger sample sizes reduce *variability* and increase result *reliability*. ## Footnote Adequate sample sizes **ensure** statistical significance and generalizability.

Question 26

# Define: data visualization

Answer 26

A way to present **results** with charts, graphs, and tables. ## Footnote Visual representations make complex data **easier** to understand and analyze.

Question 27

# Explain: What are the **key steps** in processing scientific data?

Answer 27

* Collecting data * Organizing data * Analyzing data * Interpreting results ## Footnote **Collecting data** – Gathering observations or measurements. **Organizing data** – Structuring data for easy analysis. **Analyzing data** – Identifying patterns and trends. **Interpreting results** – Drawing conclusions based on analysis.

Question 28

# Explain: What is the **difference** between *qualitative* and *quantitative* data?

Answer 28

* **Qualitative data** describes *traits*. * **Quantitative data** uses *numbers*. ## Footnote Both types of data are **essential** for providing a complete understanding of experimental results.

Question 29

# Explain: What is **reproducibility** in scientific investigations?

Answer 29

The ability to **achieve** the same results when experiments are repeated. ## Footnote Reproducibility is a cornerstone of scientific credibility, ensuring findings are *consistent* across different studies.

Question 30

# True or False: Documenting procedures **ensures** replication and transparency.

Answer 30

True ## Footnote Detailed documentation ensures other researchers can *validate* findings and *reproduce* experiments.

Question 31

# Identify: What is **experimental bias**?

Answer 31

A systematic **error** caused by subjective influences. ## Footnote Bias can occur unintentionally, such as when researchers favor certain outcomes, affecting the validity of results.

Question 32

# Explain: 3 causes of **experimental bias**

Answer 32

1. Subtle cues 2. Data interpretation 3. Selection bias ## Footnote **Subtle cues**: Researchers might unintentionally give subtle cues to participants, influencing their behavior.  **Data interpretation**: Researchers might unconsciously favor data that supports their hypothesis and downplay or ignore data that contradicts it.   **Selection bias**: Researchers might unintentionally select participants or assign them to groups in a way that favors a particular outcome. Bias can occur at **any** stage, including the design, data collection, and interpretation of experiments.

Question 33

# Explain: Why is it important to **inspect** glassware and other equipment before use?

Answer 33

To **ensure** it is free of cracks or defects. ## Footnote Damaged equipment can cause accidents, such as spills or breakages, leading to safety hazards.

Question 34

# Define: PPE

Answer 34

Personal Protective Equipment ## Footnote PPE refers to clothing and equipment designed to **protect** individuals from workplace hazards, such as chemical, biological, or physical dangers.

Question 35

# Explain: What are **four common types** of lab PPE?

Answer 35

1. Gloves 2. Goggles 3. Lab Coats 4. Face Shields ## Footnote **Gloves** – Protect hands from chemicals, heat, or contamination. **Goggles** – Shield eyes from splashes and debris. **Lab Coats** – Prevent chemical spills from contacting clothing and skin. **Face Shields** – Provide additional protection against splashes and fumes.

Question 36

# Explain: Why should PPE be **inspected** before use?

Answer 36

To **ensure** it is in good condition and free of defects. ## Footnote Damaged PPE, such as torn gloves or scratched goggles, may *fail* to provide adequate protection.

Question 37

# True or False: All chemicals can be **safely** disposed of down the drain.

Answer 37

False ## Footnote Many chemicals require **special** disposal methods to prevent environmental harm or safety hazards.

Question 38

# Explain: What should be done in case of a **chemical spill** in a lab?

Answer 38

* Follow spill response protocols. * Use absorbents. * Notify lab authorities. ## Footnote The response *depends* on the chemical—for acids, use **neutralizers**; for organic solvents, use **absorbent pads.** *Emergency eyewash stations* and *ventilation* should be used if necessary.

Question 39

# Explain: What is the **purpose** of **calibrating equipment**?

Answer 39

To ensure **accurate** and **reliable** measurements. ## Footnote Calibration aligns equipment with **standard** values, reducing systematic errors in experiments.

Question 40

# True or False: Calibration is **unnecessary** if equipment is new.

Answer 40

False ## Footnote All equipment must be calibrated **before** use to ensure accuracy, regardless of its condition.

Question 41

# Define: precision

Answer 41

How **consistently** measurements produce the same result. ## Footnote Precise results are **repeatable**, even if they are *not necessarily accurate*.

Question 42

# Identify: What term refers to **how close a measurement** is to the true value?

Answer 42

accuracy ## Footnote **Accuracy** reflects the closeness of a measurement to the actual or accepted value. A highly accurate measurement has minimal error relative to the true value.

Question 43

# True or False: Systematic errors **can be eliminated** with better calibration.

Answer 43

True ## Footnote *Systematic errors* come from consistent flaws in equipment or methods and can be corrected with calibration.

Question 44

# Explain: Why is choosing the **right** **equipment** crucial for an experiment?

Answer 44

To **ensure** efficiency, accuracy, and safety. ## Footnote Using unsuitable equipment can *lead* to inaccurate results or increased risk of accidents.

Question 45

# Identify: What does **MSDS** stand for?

Answer 45

Material Safety Data Sheets ## Footnote **MSDS** includes details about hazards, first aid measures, and proper emergency responses for substances.

Question 46

# True or False: Safety procedures are only needed for **hazardous** materials.

Answer 46

False ## Footnote *Safety procedures* should be followed in all scenarios to prevent accidents and protect individuals in the lab or field.

Question 47

# Identify What are 3 key **principles** of safe chemical storage?

Answer 47

1. Proper labeling 1. Compatibility 1. Secure containment ## Footnote *Proper labeling*, *compatibility*, and *secure containment* ensure chemicals are clearly identified, stored safely with compatible substances, and sealed to prevent leaks or spills.

Question 48

# Explain: Why is **proper labeling of chemicals** important in a laboratory?

Answer 48

To prevent **accidents**, **misuse**, and **contamination**. ## Footnote Labels must include the *chemical name*, *concentration*, *hazards*, *storage requirements*, and *first-aid measures*. Unlabeled chemicals increase **risk** in emergency situations.