Amoeba Sisters: Nature of Science

Which of the following is a suggested testable explanation for a phenomenon?

• Observation

• Hypothesis

• Analysis

• Conclusion

What is a common misconception about the scientific method?

• It is only used in biology.

• It always follows a strict, linear sequence of steps.

• It does not involve making observations.

• It cannot be used to investigate real-world problems.

What characteristic describes scientific knowledge, even when it is based on evidence?

• Absolute

• Unchanging

• Tentative

• Subjective

What is the primary goal of science?

• To prove existing theories wrong.

• To create new technologies.

• To gain knowledge.

• To win science fairs.

What is an inference in the context of scientific investigation?

• A direct measurement of a phenomenon.

• A logical conclusion based on observations and prior knowledge.

• A proposed solution to a problem.

• A detailed plan for an experiment.

What is the primary purpose of peer review in scientific publishing?

• To ensure the author's peers get credit for their work.

• To allow other scientists to evaluate the research before publication.

• To make the paper longer and more detailed.

• To help the author find a suitable journal for publication.

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

• It receives the treatment being tested.

• It is the group that is not observed.

• It does not receive the treatment and serves as a baseline for comparison.

• It is used to introduce additional variables into the experiment.

In a scientific experiment, what are "constants" (also known as controlled variables)?

• Variables that are changed by the experimenter.

• Variables that are measured as results.

• Variables that are kept the same across all groups to ensure a fair test.

• Variables that are only present in the experimental group.

On a standard scientific graph, where are the independent and dependent variables typically plotted?

• Independent variable on the Y-axis, dependent variable on the X-axis.

• Both variables on the Y-axis.

• Independent variable on the X-axis, dependent variable on the Y-axis.

• Both variables on the X-axis.

According to the DRY MIX mnemonic, what does the "D" stand for?

• Data

• Dependent variable

• Discovery

• Direct observation