Scientific Investigation - Reading

1. Science is used to investigate, explain, and predict nature.

True

False

Science is a systematic approach that involves investigating, explaining, and predicting natural phenomena. It relies on empirical evidence, observation, and experimentation to understand the world around us. By using the scientific method, scientists gather data, analyze it, and formulate theories and laws to explain the workings of nature. Additionally, science aims to make predictions about future events based on these explanations. Therefore, the statement that science is used to investigate, explain, and predict nature is true.

Explanation

Science is a systematic approach that involves investigating, explaining, and predicting natural phenomena. It relies on empirical evidence, observation, and experimentation to understand the world around us. By using the scientific method, scientists gather data, analyze it, and formulate theories and laws to explain the workings of nature. Additionally, science aims to make predictions about future events based on these explanations. Therefore, the statement that science is used to investigate, explain, and predict nature is true.

2. A hypothesis is a possible explanation or answer.

True

False

A hypothesis is indeed a possible explanation or answer. It is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon or a scientific question, based on observations, prior knowledge, and logical reasoning. It is an essential part of the scientific method, where hypotheses are formulated and then tested through experiments or further observations to determine their validity. Therefore, the statement "A hypothesis is a possible explanation or answer" is correct.

Explanation

A hypothesis is indeed a possible explanation or answer. It is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon or a scientific question, based on observations, prior knowledge, and logical reasoning. It is an essential part of the scientific method, where hypotheses are formulated and then tested through experiments or further observations to determine their validity. Therefore, the statement "A hypothesis is a possible explanation or answer" is correct.

3. During a scientific experiment, you should change two variable at the same time.

True

False

During a scientific experiment, it is generally recommended to change only one variable at a time. This allows for a clear understanding of the cause and effect relationship between the variable being manipulated and the observed outcome. Changing multiple variables simultaneously can make it difficult to determine which variable is responsible for the observed changes in the experiment, leading to inaccurate or inconclusive results. Therefore, the statement that you should change two variables at the same time during a scientific experiment is false.

Explanation

During a scientific experiment, it is generally recommended to change only one variable at a time. This allows for a clear understanding of the cause and effect relationship between the variable being manipulated and the observed outcome. Changing multiple variables simultaneously can make it difficult to determine which variable is responsible for the observed changes in the experiment, leading to inaccurate or inconclusive results. Therefore, the statement that you should change two variables at the same time during a scientific experiment is false.

4. Scientists try to make biased observations.

True

False

Scientists strive to make unbiased observations in order to obtain accurate and objective results. Bias can lead to skewed data and invalid conclusions. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that scientists make biased observations.

Explanation

Scientists strive to make unbiased observations in order to obtain accurate and objective results. Bias can lead to skewed data and invalid conclusions. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that scientists make biased observations.

5. Variables are factors of an experiment that change.

True

False

Variables are factors of an experiment that change. This means that variables have the ability to vary or be altered during the course of an experiment. They are the elements that researchers manipulate or measure in order to study their effects on the outcome of the experiment. By changing variables, researchers can observe and analyze the impact they have on the experiment's results. Therefore, the statement "Variables are factors of an experiment that change" is true.

Explanation

Variables are factors of an experiment that change. This means that variables have the ability to vary or be altered during the course of an experiment. They are the elements that researchers manipulate or measure in order to study their effects on the outcome of the experiment. By changing variables, researchers can observe and analyze the impact they have on the experiment's results. Therefore, the statement "Variables are factors of an experiment that change" is true.

6. Quantitative observations involve characteristics.

True

False

Quantitative observations involve numerical data or measurements, such as counting or measuring the size, weight, or volume of an object. Characteristics, on the other hand, are qualitative observations that describe the qualities or properties of an object, such as its color, texture, or smell. Therefore, the statement that quantitative observations involve characteristics is incorrect.

Explanation

Quantitative observations involve numerical data or measurements, such as counting or measuring the size, weight, or volume of an object. Characteristics, on the other hand, are qualitative observations that describe the qualities or properties of an object, such as its color, texture, or smell. Therefore, the statement that quantitative observations involve characteristics is incorrect.

7. Inferences are facts.

True

False

Inferences are not facts but rather conclusions or interpretations drawn from facts or evidence. Facts are objective and verifiable information, while inferences involve reasoning and making assumptions based on the available information. Inferences may be logical and reasonable, but they are not considered factual until they are supported by evidence or proven to be true. Therefore, the given statement is false.

Explanation

Inferences are not facts but rather conclusions or interpretations drawn from facts or evidence. Facts are objective and verifiable information, while inferences involve reasoning and making assumptions based on the available information. Inferences may be logical and reasonable, but they are not considered factual until they are supported by evidence or proven to be true. Therefore, the given statement is false.

8. Only testable hypotheses are useful.

True

False

Testable hypotheses are useful because they can be empirically tested and verified through experimentation or observation. This allows for the accumulation of reliable and objective evidence to support or reject the hypothesis. On the other hand, hypotheses that cannot be tested are speculative and cannot be proven or disproven. Therefore, only testable hypotheses have practical value in scientific research and decision-making processes.

Explanation

Testable hypotheses are useful because they can be empirically tested and verified through experimentation or observation. This allows for the accumulation of reliable and objective evidence to support or reject the hypothesis. On the other hand, hypotheses that cannot be tested are speculative and cannot be proven or disproven. Therefore, only testable hypotheses have practical value in scientific research and decision-making processes.

9. A theory is a well-supported fact.

True

False

The given statement is incorrect. A theory is not a well-supported fact. In scientific terms, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on a body of evidence and has been repeatedly tested and confirmed through experimentation and observation. It is not a fact, but rather a comprehensive explanation that can be modified or expanded upon as new evidence emerges. Therefore, the correct answer is False.

Explanation

The given statement is incorrect. A theory is not a well-supported fact. In scientific terms, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on a body of evidence and has been repeatedly tested and confirmed through experimentation and observation. It is not a fact, but rather a comprehensive explanation that can be modified or expanded upon as new evidence emerges. Therefore, the correct answer is False.

10. A hypothesis that is not supported is not useful.

True

False

A hypothesis that is not supported can still be useful because it provides valuable information about what does not work or what factors can be ruled out. It helps researchers refine their approach and generate new hypotheses. Additionally, negative results can prevent others from wasting time and resources on pursuing the same hypothesis. Therefore, even though a hypothesis may not be supported, it can still contribute to the scientific process and knowledge advancement.

Explanation

A hypothesis that is not supported can still be useful because it provides valuable information about what does not work or what factors can be ruled out. It helps researchers refine their approach and generate new hypotheses. Additionally, negative results can prevent others from wasting time and resources on pursuing the same hypothesis. Therefore, even though a hypothesis may not be supported, it can still contribute to the scientific process and knowledge advancement.

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