The Scientific Method

Question 1

Scientific method

Answer 1

The process of investigation carried out in order to explain an observation

Question 2

Observation

Answer 2

Taking in information received about the natural world

Question 3

Hypothesis

Answer 3

An educated guess based on observation/ prediction

Question 4

Experiment

Answer 4

A test designed to determine the validity of a hypothesis

Question 5

Data

Answer 5

Consists of information and observations gathered from an experiment

Question 6

Conclusion

Answer 6

Explanation of the results

Question 7

Theory

Answer 7

A hypothesis that has been supported by many different experiments

Question 8

Principle

Answer 8

A principal or law arises from a theory that has shown to be valid when fully tested over a long period of time

Question 9

Variable

Answer 9

A factor that is changed in an experiment

Question 10

Control

Answer 10

A factor in a experiment that provides a standard with which the results of the experiment may be compared with

Question 11

Random selection

Answer 11

The process of choosing subjects to be scientifically tested without method or conscious choice

Question 12

Replication

Answer 12

Repeat of an experiment

Question 13

Double blind testing

Answer 13

When neither the tester not the patient know what medication is being administered

Question 14

Placebo

Answer 14

A substance with no active medication that is used as a control in an experiment

Question 15

Ethics

Answer 15

Refers to whether issues are right or wrong

Question 16

What are the steps of the scientific method ?

Answer 16

1. Observation
2. Hypothesis
3. Experimentation
4. Collecting and interpreting data
5. Forming conclusions
6. Analysing conclusions
7. Reporting a publishing results

Question 17

How will the results of an experiment affect the hypothesis?

Answer 17

The hypothesis is:
Supported if results fully agree
Changed if results partially agree
Rejected if results contradict it

Question 18

Principles of experimentation:

Answer 18

1. Careful planning and design
2. Safety procedures
3. Experimental control
4. Large sample size
5. Random selection
6. Replication
7. Double blind testing

Question 19

What are the limitations of the scientific method?

Answer 19

Extent of basic knowledge
Interpretation of results
Accidental discoveries
Changes in nature

Question 20

Science

Answer 20

The study of the physical, material and living world