Nature of Science

How is the scientific method typically presented?

• As a flexible, non-linear process.

• As a linear set of steps.

• As a series of unrelated experiments.

• As a recipe for making a cake.

Which statement best describes how scientists often conduct their work?

• They strictly follow a linear sequence of steps without deviation.

• They always arrive at a definitive conclusion without needing to re-evaluate.

• They frequently go back through steps, take different turns, or ask new questions.

• They only develop models for phenomena and never adjust them.

What is the primary goal of science, based on its Latin origin?

• To develop scientific laws.

• To gain knowledge.

• To prove scientific theories.

• To conduct experiments.

What is the difference between an observation and an inference in a scientific investigation?

• An observation is a logical conclusion, while an inference is direct data gathering.

• An observation is direct data gathering, while an inference is a logical conclusion based on evidence.

• An observation is a testable explanation, while an inference is a procedure of steps.

• An observation is always quantitative, while an inference is always qualitative.

What characteristic makes scientific papers a reliable source of information?

• They are always the first result in a search engine.

• They are peer-reviewed by other scientists.

• They are written by a single author.

• They are published in popular magazines.

In an experiment, what is the primary characteristic of a control group?

• It receives the experimental treatment.

• It does not receive the experimental treatment.

• It is used to test multiple variables at once.

• It is always the largest group in an experiment.

Which type of variable is manipulated or changed by the experimenter?

• The dependent variable

• The constant variable

• The independent variable

• The measured variable

According to the D.R.Y. M.I.X. mnemonic, where is the dependent variable placed on a graph?

• On the X-axis

• On the Y-axis

• It is not placed on an axis

• It can be placed on either axis