1.
Why is it important for scientists to test only ONE variable at a time during an experiment?
2.
Who is your teacher?
3.
What class period are you in?
4.
Which statement is not an observation?
Correct Answer
C. The insect's pattern shows that it is poisonous.
Explanation
The statement "The insect's pattern shows that it is poisonous" is not an observation because it involves an interpretation or inference about the insect's pattern rather than a direct observation of the pattern itself. Observations are typically factual and objective descriptions of what is directly observable, while interpretations involve making conclusions or judgments based on those observations.
5.
The statement "The worm is 2 cm long" is a(n)
Correct Answer
A. Quantitative observation
Explanation
The statement "The worm is 2 cm long" is a quantitative observation because it provides a specific measurement of the length of the worm. It is a factual statement based on direct measurement or observation, rather than an interpretation or assumption.
6.
An inference is
Correct Answer
B. A logical interpretation of an observation
Explanation
An inference is a logical interpretation of an observation. When we make an observation, we gather information through our senses. However, an inference goes beyond the observation and involves using reasoning and logic to draw conclusions or make interpretations based on the available evidence. It involves connecting the dots and making sense of the observed information. Inferences are important in fields such as science, where scientists make logical interpretations based on their observations to develop theories and explanations for phenomena.
7.
To be useful in science, a hypothesis must be
Correct Answer
C. Testable
Explanation
Only testable hypotheses are useful in science. Even incorrect hypotheses can give useful information about how the natural world works. Not all experiments involve things you can measure or directly see, but all must have a testable hypothesis.
8.
Which statement about a controlled experiment is true?
Correct Answer
B. Only one variable is changed at a time.
Explanation
Answer B is the definition of a controlled experiment. Not all studies lend themselves to controlled experiments. For example, field observations are, by definition, not controlled experiments.
9.
A scientific theory is
Correct Answer
B. A well tested explanation that unifies a broad range of observations
Explanation
A scientific theory is a well tested explanation that unifies a broad range of observations. This means that a scientific theory is not just a guess or hypothesis, but it is based on extensive research and experimentation. It is a comprehensive explanation that can account for a wide variety of observations and has been repeatedly tested and supported by evidence. A scientific theory goes beyond the conclusion of a single experiment and provides a framework to understand and predict natural phenomena.
10.
Which process is used by organisms to keep their internal conditions relatively stable?
Correct Answer
D. Homeostasis
Explanation
Homeostasis is the process used by organisms to maintain a relatively stable internal environment. It involves various physiological mechanisms that regulate temperature, pH levels, water balance, and other factors to ensure optimal conditions for the body's cells. Homeostasis is crucial for the proper functioning of an organism and allows it to adapt to changes in the external environment while keeping internal conditions within a narrow range. Metabolism, reproduction, and evolution are important processes in organisms but do not specifically refer to the maintenance of internal stability.
11.
Please refer to the graph on page 32 of the course text book to answer this question.
The manipulated (independent) variable was
Correct Answer
D. Size of the containers
Explanation
Remember that the independent variable is the variable which is changed (manipulated) by the researcher.
12.
Please refer to the graph on page 32 of the course text book to answer this question.
Which is a scientific inference based on the contents of the graph?
Correct Answer
B. A fly population with more available space will grow larger than one with less space.
Explanation
B is the only answer that can be inferred based solely on the graph.