Chapter 1, Lesson 3 Practice Quiz - Scientific Inquiry

What is the first step of scientific inquiry (the scientific method)?

• Make an observation or ask a question

• Form a hypothesis

• Analyze the data

• Draw a conclusion

Answer explanation

The first step in the scientific method is to make an observation or ask a question. This step is fundamental as it sets the base for further inquiry. The question or observation leads to the formation of a hypothesis, data analysis, and finally drawing a conclusion.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-1

Which of the following is an example of a hypothesis?

• Placing the plants in direct sunlight will cause them to wilt

• Using a different type of soil will change the color of the flowers

• Adding more water to the soil will make the plants grow faster

• The statement 'If I increase the amount of fertilizer, then it will result in larger plant growth' is an example of a hypothesis.

Answer explanation

A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon, often framed as a testable prediction. The option 'If I increase the amount of fertilizer, then it will result in larger plant growth' fits this definition. It is an example of a hypothesis because it predicts an outcome (larger plant growth) based on a change in conditions (increased fertilizer).

What are the three types of variables in an experiment?

• causal variables, effect variables, and regulated variables.

• independent variables, dependent variables, and controlled variables

• experimental variables, outcome variables, and regulated variables.

• manipulated variables, response variables, and constant variables.

Answer explanation

The three types of variables in an experiment are independent variables, dependent variables, and controlled variables. Independent variables are manipulated to observe their effects on dependent variables, while controlled variables are kept constant to ensure that the results are due to the effects of the independent variables alone.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

What is the purpose of the control group in an experiment?

• To provide a baseline for comparison.

• To manipulate the independent variable.

• To collect data from the experimental group.

• To ensure the experiment is fair.

Answer explanation

The purpose of a control group in an experiment is to provide a baseline for comparison. This group undergoes the same conditions as the experimental group, except for the variable being tested. By comparing results with the control group, researchers can determine the effect of the variable they're manipulating.

What is the difference between independent and dependent variables?

• The independent variable is manipulated by the researcher, while the dependent variable is measured or observed and is affected by the independent variable.

• The independent variable is not affected by the dependent variable, while the dependent variable is manipulated by the researcher.

• The independent variable is measured or observed and is affected by the dependent variable, while the dependent variable is manipulated by the researcher.

• The dependent variable is manipulated by the researcher, while the independent variable is measured or observed and is affected by the dependent variable.

Answer explanation

The independent variable is the one that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment to test the effects on the dependent variable. Here, the correct answer is that the independent variable is manipulated by the researcher, while the dependent variable, which is the outcome, is measured or observed and is influenced by the independent variable.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

Which step of scientific inquiry (scientific method) involves analyzing the data and drawing conclusions?

• collecting the data

• interpreting the results

• formulating a hypothesis

• conducting experiments

Answer explanation

The scientific inquiry, or scientific method, involves several steps. The step of analyzing the data and drawing conclusions is referred to as 'interpreting the results'. This is when the gathered data is examined to understand what it signifies and to determine if the initial hypothesis was correct or not.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

What is the purpose of conducting multiple trials in an experiment?

• To increase the reliability and validity of the results.

• To save time and resources.

• To confuse the researchers and participants.

• To decrease the reliability and validity of the results.

Answer explanation

The purpose of conducting multiple trials in an experiment is to increase the reliability and validity of the results. This is because with each additional trial, the data set becomes larger and the anomalies or outliers are minimized, resulting in more accurate and reliable results. On the contrary, it's not to save time, confuse anyone, or decrease reliability.

What is the role of peer review in scientific inquiry?

• Peer review ensures the quality and validity of research.

• Peer review is a time-consuming process that delays the dissemination of research.

• Peer review guarantees that all research is published.

• Peer review helps researchers gain recognition for their work.

Answer explanation

The role of peer review in scientific inquiry is to ensure the quality and validity of the research, which is the correct answer. This process involves examining the methods and results of a study by other experts in the same field. It does not guarantee all research is published, nor is it primarily a way for researchers to gain recognition. While it can be time-consuming, its main purpose is to uphold the integrity of scientific research.

What is the importance of using a large sample size in an experiment?

• To decrease reliability and generalizability of the results.

• To increase reliability and generalizability of the results.

• To reduce the accuracy of the findings.

• To limit the scope of the study.

Answer explanation

Using a large sample size in an experiment is crucial to increase the reliability and generalizability of the results. A larger sample size increases the likelihood that the sample accurately reflects the population, thereby improving the reliability and generalizability of the experimental findings.

Why is it important to communicate the results of a scientific investigation?

• To keep the results a secret and prevent others from benefiting from the findings.

• To confuse and mislead other scientists.

• To avoid wasting time and resources on sharing information.

• To share knowledge and findings, promote transparency, and advance scientific knowledge.

Answer explanation

Communicating the results of a scientific investigation is crucial in order to share the knowledge and findings, promote transparency, and advance scientific knowledge. This helps to ensure that the scientific community is kept informed and can build upon the research. The other options that suggest secrecy, confusion, or avoiding waste of resources don’t align with the core principles of scientific research.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS4-1