The Scientific Process

Question 1

Description of scientific process:

Answer 1

1. Make observation/ask why or how it happens.
2. Suggest answer, form theory, sometimes form model.
3. Make prediction/hypothesis.
4. Test hypothesis.

Question 2

Peer review process:

Answer 2

1. Write report.
2. Report sent to peers. Published if they deem conclusion reasonable.
3. Not guaranteed to be correct, needs to be replicated.

Question 3

When is a theory accepted?

Answer 3

When the evidence supports it.

Question 4

How do scientists test one another’s theories?

Answer 4

1. Repeat the experiment.

2. Use theory for new predictions, test with new experiments.

Question 5

Advantages of lab experiments:

Answer 5

Controlled environment, control other variables. Can draw meaningful conclusions.

Question 6

Why is scientific evidence important to society?

Answer 6

Leads to important discoveries to benefit humans. Used to make decisions.

Question 7

How can economic factors influence decisions about how science is used?

Answer 7

It’s expensive to implement changes, such as to the NHS.

Drug companies won’t develop ideas that don’t make them money.

Question 8

How can social factors influence how science is used?

Answer 8

Decisions affect lives. Suggestions to ban smoking and drinking to stop health problems prevent free will.

Question 9

How can environmental factors influence how science is used?

Answer 9

Unexplored regions may provide drug resources, but exploiting the region can lead to deforestation and reduced biodiversity.