Scientific Theories and Methods

Professor Dave explains the scientific method, its historical roots, and its role in understanding the universe. He clarifies common misconceptions about science, defines key scientific terms, and describes the process of forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, and developing theories. The video emphasizes the importance of theories in science and the rigorous nature of the scientific method.

What is the primary purpose of the scientific method?

• To prove personal beliefs

• To memorize facts about the universe

• To systematically acquire knowledge about the universe

• To understand subjective experiences

Which of the following is a common misconception about scientific theories?

• They are just guesses

• They are based on observations

• They can make predictions

• They are supported by evidence

What is a hypothesis in the context of science?

• A summary of laws

• A proven fact

• An unchangeable truth

• A tentative explanation of observations

In an experiment, what is the independent variable?

• The variable that is kept constant

• The variable that is measured

• The variable that is altered

• The variable that is ignored

What did Galileo's experiment with falling objects demonstrate?

• Heavier objects fall faster than lighter ones

• Objects fall at the same rate regardless of mass

• Objects fall slower in a vacuum

• The shape of an object affects its falling speed

How did Newton develop his gravitational theory?

• By guessing the behavior of celestial bodies

• By observing only the planets

• By using only Kepler's data

• By combining data from falling objects and planetary orbits

What is a key feature of a scientific theory?

• It makes falsifiable predictions

• It cannot be tested

• It is always proven wrong

• It is a random guess

What distinguishes a scientific law from a theory?

• A theory is less certain than a law

• A theory summarizes observations

• A law explains why phenomena occur

• A law describes what happens, while a theory explains why

Why is it important for a theory to make predictions?

• To ensure it is never challenged

• To make it a law

• To validate its explanatory power

• To avoid experimentation

What happens if a theory's predictions are proven false?

• The theory is considered a hypothesis

• The theory is discarded or revised

• The predictions are ignored

• The theory becomes a law