Introduction to Physical Science

The closest meaning to the word hypothesis is _________.

• suggested explanation

• fact

• law

• formula

When a theory has been known for a long time it becomes a law.

• True

• False

The most parsimonious theory is based on the fewest

• hypotheses

• facts

• observations

• assumptions

What is the purpose of a scientific theory?

• To give a broad explanation why nature behaves the way that it does

• To make a guess at why something in nature happens

• To describe how nature behaves in certain circumstances

• To cause children in schools to have to learn new things

Which statement(s) is/are true about a theory?

• A broad explanation

• Supported by evidence

• A hunch or a guess

In science, _______________ is a broad explanation that is widely accepted because it is supported by a great deal of evidence

• hypothesis

• observation

• theory

Which statement best explains the relationship between scientific theories and scientific laws?

• Scientific theories are not supported by much evidence, while laws are supported by lots of evidence.

• Scientific laws are always true, while scientific theories are only sometimes true.

• Scientific laws are unrelated to scientific theories.

• Scientific theories explain why and how nature follows specific scientific laws.

Which statement could be a scientific law?

• Objects dropped above the earth will eventually fall down to the surface of the Earth.

• The seasons occur because of the tilt of Earth's axis.

• Objects fall toward the Earth because of gravity.

• The moon may have formed because Earth was struck by a giant asteroid.

A theory is a description of certain events, whereas a law is an explanation for many events.

• True

• False

Which of the following is an ethical rule in science?

• Reporting research honestly

• Trying to see things as they really are

• Informing coworkers and the community about the risks of certain research

• Humanely treating animals involved in research