Applying the Scientific Method Quiz

What is the first step in applying the scientific method?

• Conducting an experiment

• Collecting and analyzing data

• Formulating a hypothesis

• Identifying a problem or question

Which of the following is a characteristic of a good hypothesis?

• It is a question.

• It is a proven fact.

• It is testable and falsifiable.

• It is vague.

What is the role of an independent variable in an experiment?

• It is what you measure in the experiment.

• It is kept constant throughout the experiment.

• It is what the experimenter changes or manipulates.

• It is the outcome of the experiment.

What is a dependent variable?

• The variable that is manipulated by the researcher.

• The variable that remains unchanged throughout the experiment.

• The variable that is measured or observed in response to the independent variable.

• The hypothesis being tested.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic that strengthens an experiment's design?

• Large sample size

• Random assignment

• Use of a single variable

• Bias in data interpretation

Which of the following questions is NOT testable by scientific methods?

• What is the boiling point of water at sea level?

• How does sunlight affect plant growth?

• What is the meaning of life?

• How does the type of soil affect a plant's growth?

Why is it important to replicate an experiment?

• To use up leftover materials

• To verify the results

• To change the hypothesis

• To make the experiment easier

What does it mean to analyze data in the context of the scientific method?

• To share the data with others

• To compare the results to the hypothesis

• To collect more data

• To change the experimental design

Which of the following best describes the relationship between the independent and dependent variables in an experiment?

• The independent variable is affected by changes in the dependent variable.

• The dependent variable is affected by changes in the independent variable.

• Both variables are manipulated by the experimenter.

• There is no relationship between the two variables.

What role does the hypothesis play in an experiment?

• It serves as a conclusion.

• It is a question to be answered by the experiment.

• It is a prediction that guides the direction of the study.

• It is the variable that is manipulated.