Scientific Inquiry

Refer to the image for the question & Part A

Part B: Explain how an observation and a scientific law are related.

Answer explanation

Observations are specific instances of data collected through experiments or experiences. Scientific laws are generalized statements based on repeated observations that describe consistent natural phenomena, linking the two through empirical evidence.

Part A: Describe an observation from the prairie sample study.

Part B: Describe an inference from the prairie sample study.

Part C: Describe a difference between any observation and any inference.

Answer explanation

An observation from the prairie study could be noting the number of grass species present. An inference might be that a higher number of species indicates a healthier ecosystem. Observations are factual, while inferences are interpretations.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Which sequence of steps is needed for the scientist’s hypothesis about the absence of amphipods to eventually become a theory?

• 3, 2, 4, 1, 5

• 4, 3, 5, 1, 2

• 5, 1, 4, 2, 3

• 5, 4, 3, 2, 1

Answer explanation

The correct sequence 5, 1, 4, 2, 3 outlines the process: 5 (make observations), 1 (formulate hypothesis), 4 (test hypothesis), 2 (analyze results), and 3 (if supported, it can become a theory).

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

Refer to the image

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Answer explanation

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-1

Refer to the image.

You will Select two student statements, and classify each of them as one form of scientific information.

First identify which statement you are choosing, label which scientific term the statement is describing, then chose another statement and label which scientific term the statement is describing.

Answer explanation

Select Statement A: 'Water boils at 100°C' - describes a physical property. Select Statement B: 'Plants need sunlight to grow' - describes a biological process.

What is the primary difference between a scientific hypothesis and a scientific theory?

• A hypothesis is more complex than a theory.

• A hypothesis is a tentative explanation, while a theory is a well-substantiated explanation.

• A hypothesis is a law, while a theory is an observation.

• A hypothesis is a proven fact, while a theory is a guess.

Answer explanation

The correct choice highlights that a hypothesis is a tentative explanation that can be tested, while a theory is a well-substantiated explanation based on a body of evidence, making it more established than a hypothesis.

Which of the following is a necessary step in the scientific method before a hypothesis can become a theory?

• It must be published in a scientific journal.

• It must be tested and supported by a significant amount of evidence.

• It must be accepted by the general public.

• It must be proven true in all cases.

Answer explanation

Before a hypothesis can become a theory, it must be tested and supported by a significant amount of evidence. This rigorous testing ensures reliability and validity, distinguishing theories from mere speculation.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS2-5

In the context of scientific research, what role does peer review play in the development of a theory?

• It validates the research and helps refine the hypothesis into a theory.

• It provides a platform for scientists to share their opinions.

• It ensures that the hypothesis is correct.

• It allows scientists to publish their work without scrutiny.

Answer explanation

Peer review is crucial as it validates research findings and provides constructive feedback, helping to refine hypotheses into robust theories. It does not guarantee correctness but enhances the credibility of scientific work.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS4-2

Refer to the image.

You will Select two student statements, and classify each of them as one form of scientific information.

First identify which statement you are choosing, label which scientific term the statement is describing, then chose another statement and label which scientific term the statement is describing.

Answer explanation

Select Statement 1: 'Water boils at 100°C' - describes a physical property. Select Statement 2: 'Plants need sunlight to grow' - describes a biological process. Both statements illustrate fundamental scientific concepts.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

What is the role of experimentation in the process of a hypothesis becoming a theory?

• It tests the hypothesis and gathers empirical evidence.

• It ensures the hypothesis is accepted by the public.

• It transforms the hypothesis directly into a law.

• It provides anecdotal evidence to support the hypothesis.

Answer explanation

The correct choice highlights that experimentation is crucial for testing the hypothesis and gathering empirical evidence, which is essential for its validation and eventual progression to a theory.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

NGSS.MS-LS2-4