The Scientific Method Crash Course Biology #2

What does the word 'science' mean?

• To know

• To discover

• To experiment

• To observe

Answer explanation

The word 'science' comes from the Latin word 'scientia', which means 'knowledge'. Therefore, the correct answer to the question 'What does the word 'science' mean?' is 'To know'. This is because science is the pursuit and application of knowledge and understanding of the natural and social world following a systematic methodology based on evidence.

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What is the fuel for science's fire?

• Observation

• Knowledge

• Curiosity

• Experimentation

Answer explanation

The fuel for science's fire is curiosity. This is because curiosity drives scientists to ask questions and seek answers, leading to new discoveries and advancements in science. While observation, knowledge, and experimentation are all important components of scientific inquiry, it is curiosity that sparks the initial interest and motivates the pursuit of knowledge.

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What are some burning questions that fuel science?

• What is the universe made of?

• Where did life begin?

• Why does cut grass smell like watermelon?

• All of the above

Answer explanation

The question asks about the burning questions that fuel science. The options provided are all significant scientific queries. 'What is the universe made of?' pertains to physics and cosmology. 'Where did life begin?' is a fundamental question in biology and astrobiology. 'Why does cut grass smell like watermelon?' is a question in the field of chemistry and botany. Therefore, 'All of the above' is the correct answer as all these questions fuel scientific exploration and discovery.

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What is the scientific method?

• A process of discovery and knowing

• A set of rules for conducting experiments

• A way to prove or disprove theories

• A method for analyzing data

Answer explanation

The scientific method is a process of discovery and knowing, as it involves systematic observation, measurement, experimentation, and the formulation, testing, and modification of hypotheses. It is not just a set of rules for experiments, a way to prove or disprove theories, or a method for analyzing data, but rather a comprehensive approach to understanding the natural world.

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What is the first step of the scientific method?

• Forming a hypothesis

• Analyzing the results

• Making an observation

• Reporting the conclusions

Answer explanation

The first step of the scientific method is making an observation. This is when a scientist notices something in the natural world and begins to ask questions about it. Forming a hypothesis, analyzing the results, and reporting the conclusions are subsequent steps in the process.

What is a hypothesis?

• A proven fact

• An educated guess

• A scientific theory

• A mathematical model

Answer explanation

A hypothesis is an educated guess because it is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon based on limited evidence. It serves as a starting point for further investigation and experimentation. Unlike a proven fact, a hypothesis is not yet confirmed, and it is different from a scientific theory or a mathematical model, which are more comprehensive explanations supported by a significant amount of evidence.

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What is the purpose of an experiment in the scientific method?

• To gather evidence

• To prove a hypothesis

• To report conclusions

• To create new hypotheses

Answer explanation

The purpose of an experiment in the scientific method is to gather evidence. This is done to test a hypothesis, not to prove it. The evidence gathered can either support or refute the hypothesis. Reporting conclusions and creating new hypotheses are subsequent steps in the scientific method.

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What is the role of peer review in the scientific process?

• To catch mistakes or fraud

• To promote collaboration

• To interpret data

• To design experiments

Answer explanation

Peer review plays a crucial role in the scientific process as it helps to catch mistakes or fraud. This process involves experts in the same field who critically assess and validate the work of their peers. It ensures the integrity and validity of the research, thereby preventing the dissemination of false or inaccurate findings.

What is a scientific theory?

• A guess or speculation

• A proven fact

• A hypothesis with strong evidence

• A mathematical equation

Answer explanation

A scientific theory is not just a guess or speculation, nor is it a proven fact or a mathematical equation. It is a hypothesis that has been supported by strong evidence. This evidence is gathered through repeated testing and observation, and the theory is widely accepted in the scientific community until new evidence emerges that may challenge it.

What is a scientific law?

• A universal statement describing a physical phenomenon

• A hypothesis that has been proven

• A mathematical model

• A theory with broad consensus

Answer explanation

A scientific law is a universal statement that describes a physical phenomenon. It is based on empirical observations and is generally expressed mathematically. Unlike a hypothesis, a law has been tested and confirmed through repeated experiments. A mathematical model or a theory with broad consensus are not the same as a scientific law.