Understanding the Term Distinguish in Science

Distinguish - To notice and understand the difference between ideas, definitions, and/or concepts.

In the context of scientific research, what does it mean to distinguish between two variables?

• To identify the similarities between them

• To identify the differences between them

• To measure them using the same unit

• To ignore one and focus on the other

Answer explanation

To distinguish between two variables means to identify the differences between them. This is crucial in scientific research to understand how each variable affects outcomes.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

Distinguish - To notice and understand the difference between ideas, definitions, and/or concepts.

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the concept of distinguishing in a scientific experiment?

• Measuring the temperature of a substance at different times

• Comparing the growth rate of plants in sunlight versus artificial light

• Recording the color change of a chemical reaction

• Calculating the speed of a moving object

Answer explanation

Comparing the growth rate of plants in sunlight versus artificial light illustrates distinguishing, as it involves understanding the differences in plant growth under varying light conditions.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

Distinguish - To notice and understand the difference between ideas, definitions, and/or concepts.

A scientist is conducting an experiment to distinguish between a cat and a lion. Which of the following methods would be most appropriate for this task?

• Measure the weight of each animal.

• Observe physical characteristics and behavior.

• Count the number of legs on each animal.

• Analyze the sound each animal makes.

Answer explanation

Observing physical characteristics and behavior allows the scientist to identify key differences between a cat and a lion, such as size, fur patterns, and social behavior, making it the most effective method for distinction.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Distinguish - To notice and understand the difference between ideas, definitions, and/or concepts.

In a biology class, students are asked to distinguish between living and non-living things. Which characteristic should they focus on to make this distinction?

• The ability to photosynthesize.

• The presence of a backbone.

• The ability to move independently.

• The ability to grow and reproduce.

• They are all made up of atoms

Answer explanation

To distinguish between living and non-living things, students should focus on the ability to grow and reproduce, as this is a key characteristic of living organisms that non-living things do not possess.

Distinguish - To notice and understand the difference between ideas, definitions, and/or concepts.

A researcher is tasked with distinguishing between two similar species of birds. Which of the following strategies would be most effective in achieving this?

• Observing their feeding habits over a period of time

• Measuring the wingspan of both species

• Analyzing their DNA sequences

• Recording their migration patterns

Answer explanation

Analyzing their DNA sequences is the most effective strategy, as it provides precise genetic differences that can clearly distinguish between the two similar bird species, unlike behavioral or physical observations.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS3-1

NGSS.MS-LS4-2