Scientific Method Quiz

Noah and Luna are working on a science project. Which step of the scientific method involves making observations and asking questions?

• Hypothesis

• Experiment

• Research

• Conclusion

Answer explanation

The research step of the scientific method involves making observations and asking questions to gather information, which helps in forming a hypothesis. Therefore, the correct answer is Research.

In a science class experiment, Zoe and Kai are testing the effect of sunlight on plant growth. What is the primary purpose of a control group in their experiment?

• To provide a variable to test

• To compare against the experimental group

• To provide a source of error

• To ensure the experiment is repeated

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of a control group is to provide a baseline for comparison against the experimental group. This helps determine the effect of sunlight on plant growth by isolating the variable being tested.

During a science experiment, Hannah needs to measure the volume of a liquid. Which of the following tools should she use?

• Thermometer

• Balance

• Graduated cylinder

• Microscope

Answer explanation

Hannah should use a graduated cylinder to measure the volume of a liquid accurately. A thermometer measures temperature, a balance measures mass, and a microscope is used for magnifying small objects.

During a chemistry lab session, which of the following is considered a lab safety rule?

• Wear safety goggles at all times

• Eat food in the laboratory

• Leave your experiments unattended

• Handle chemicals with bare hands

Answer explanation

Wearing safety goggles at all times is crucial in a chemistry lab to protect your eyes from harmful chemicals and potential splashes. The other options are unsafe practices that should be avoided.

Hannah and Aiden are conducting an experiment to test the effect of sunlight on plant growth. What is the dependent variable?

• Amount of sunlight

• Type of plant used

• Growth of the plant

• Size of the pots

Answer explanation

The dependent variable is what is measured in an experiment. In this case, the growth of the plant is affected by the amount of sunlight, making it the dependent variable.

During a science fair, Hannah and Kai are trying to determine what a hypothesis represents in the scientific method. What is it?

• A proven fact

• An educated guess

• The results of the experiment

• The method of data collection

Answer explanation

A hypothesis is an educated guess that proposes a possible explanation for a phenomenon. It is not a proven fact, the results of an experiment, or the method of data collection.

During a science experiment, Aron needs to measure the mass of a rock. Which lab tool should he use?

• Graduated cylinder

• Thermometer

• Balance

• Beaker

Answer explanation

To measure the mass of a rock, Aron should use a balance, as it is specifically designed for measuring mass. A graduated cylinder measures volume, a thermometer measures temperature, and a beaker is used for holding liquids.

Avery is conducting an experiment to find the density of a rock. What is the correct unit for density?

• g/cm³

• m/s²

• kg

• L

Answer explanation

The correct unit for density is g/cm³, which represents grams per cubic centimeter. This unit is commonly used in science to express the mass of a substance relative to its volume.

During a science class, Evelyn asked, 'What is the primary difference between a scientific theory and a scientific law?'

• The theory is more specific

• The law explains why phenomena occur, while the theory describes what happens

• The theory is based on repeated experiments, while the law is based on a single experiment

• The theory is a broad explanation, while the law describes a consistent observation

Answer explanation

The correct choice highlights that a scientific theory provides a broad explanation of phenomena, while a scientific law describes consistent observations that occur under specific conditions.

During a science fair, Isla and Aria presented their findings. How is data typically represented in a graph?

• As a list of numbers

• As a series of written descriptions

• As visual plots showing relationships

• As a collection of images

Answer explanation

Data is typically represented in graphs as visual plots showing relationships between variables, making it easier to interpret and analyze the information compared to lists or descriptions.