1.2 Scientific Inquiry

What is the data of an experiment?

• The report written about the experiment

• The questions asked in an experiment

• Information you learn in an experiment

• Presentation you give about an experiment

Answer explanation

The data of an experiment refers to the information you learn during the process. This includes observations, measurements, and results, which are essential for drawing conclusions.

What is an experiment? 

• A report by a scientist

• The answer to a question

• Something unknown

• A way to test an idea

Answer explanation

An experiment is a way to test an idea by conducting a procedure to gather data and observe outcomes. This helps validate or refute hypotheses, making it essential in scientific inquiry.

The factor that can change or vary in an experiment is a _________________________. 

• Record

• Variable

• Experiment

• Control

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'Variable' because it refers to any factor that can change or be manipulated in an experiment, distinguishing it from constants or controls that remain unchanged.

Which of the following is a qualitative observation?

• The plant grew 5 cm in one week.

• The leaves of the plant are green.

• The plant has 10 leaves.

• The plant weighs 200 grams.

Answer explanation

A qualitative observation describes characteristics or qualities. 'The leaves of the plant are green' describes a quality, while the other options provide quantitative measurements.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which of the following is an inference?

• The sky is blue.

• The plant is wilting because it needs water.

• The temperature is 25°C.

• The liquid is clear.

Answer explanation

The statement 'The plant is wilting because it needs water' is an inference, as it interprets the observed wilting as a sign of water deficiency, rather than stating a fact.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

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

• To test multiple variables at once

• To serve as a standard for comparison

• To ensure the experiment is valid

• To increase the sample size

Answer explanation

The purpose of a control group is to serve as a standard for comparison. It allows researchers to determine the effect of the independent variable by comparing results against the control, which does not receive the treatment.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which of the following is a quantitative observation?

• The solution is blue.

• The solution has a pH of 7.

• The solution is acidic.

• The solution is clear.

Answer explanation

A quantitative observation involves measurable data. 'The solution has a pH of 7' provides a specific numerical value, making it quantitative. The other options describe qualities without numerical measurement.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

In an experiment, why is it important to keep certain factors constant?

• To ensure that the results are due to the independent variable

• To make the experiment more complex

• To increase the number of variables

• To reduce the time needed for the experiment

Answer explanation

Keeping certain factors constant is crucial to ensure that any observed changes in the experiment are solely due to the independent variable. This helps establish a clear cause-and-effect relationship.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

How would you distinguish between an observation and an inference?

• Observations are conclusions drawn from data; inferences are data collected.

• Observations are data collected using the senses; inferences are conclusions drawn from observations.

• Observations are always qualitative; inferences are always quantitative.

• Observations are guesses; inferences are facts.

Answer explanation

The correct choice states that observations are data collected using the senses, while inferences are conclusions drawn from those observations. This distinction clarifies the difference between direct data and interpretations.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which of the following best describes a hypothesis?

• A proven fact

• A testable prediction

• A random guess

• A detailed observation

Answer explanation

A hypothesis is best described as a testable prediction, as it proposes a possible explanation that can be tested through experimentation. It is not a proven fact, a random guess, or merely a detailed observation.

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DOK Level 1: Recall