1.
What is the name for the steps scientists go through to solve problems?
Correct Answer
D. D. scientific method
Explanation
The scientific method is the name for the steps scientists go through to solve problems. It involves making observations, forming a hypothesis, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. This systematic approach allows scientists to gather evidence and test their ideas in a logical and organized manner.
2.
How might a scientist show bias in an experiment?
Correct Answer
C. C. by drawing conclusions without analyzing data
Explanation
A scientist might show bias in an experiment by drawing conclusions without analyzing data. This means that the scientist is making assumptions or forming opinions based on personal beliefs or preferences, rather than objectively examining and interpreting the collected data. By doing so, the scientist may introduce bias and potentially reach inaccurate or misleading conclusions. It is important for scientists to analyze data thoroughly and objectively to ensure the validity and reliability of their findings.
3.
Mike is testing the effects of friction on a toy car going down a ramp. He runs one trial with sandpaper on the ramp and another trial with cloth on the ramp. What else does he need in his experiment?
Correct Answer
A. A. a control group
Explanation
In order to properly test the effects of friction on the toy car going down the ramp, Mike needs a control group. A control group is a group that does not receive the experimental treatment, in this case, the sandpaper or cloth on the ramp. By having a control group with no additional friction, Mike can compare the results of the experimental groups to see the true effects of the sandpaper and cloth on the car's movement. This helps to ensure that any observed differences in the experimental groups are due to the friction and not other factors.
4.
Mike is conducting an experiment to see if his dog will eat a new brand of dog food. He will replace the dog’s old food with the new brand. Identify the dependent variable in this experiment.
Correct Answer
D. D. whether the dog eats
Explanation
The dependent variable in this experiment is whether the dog eats. This is because it is the variable that is being measured and is expected to change as a result of the independent variable, which is the type of food. The other options, such as the amount of food and the place the food is left, may also be factors that can influence whether the dog eats, but they are not the main focus of the experiment.
5.
Why is it important for scientists to present their findings to the public?
Correct Answer
B. B. Scientific data can benefit society in different ways.
Explanation
Scientists have a responsibility to present their findings to the public because scientific data can benefit society in different ways. By sharing their research with the public, scientists can contribute to the advancement of knowledge, inform public policy decisions, and promote scientific literacy. Additionally, presenting findings to the public allows for transparency and accountability in the scientific community, ensuring that research is accessible and understandable to all. This helps to foster trust and engagement between scientists and the public, ultimately leading to a more informed and educated society.
6.
Clara is conducting an experiment to find out the number of times her lab mice received a reward for finishing a task. She is using a tally chart to keep track of each mouse and the number of rewards each receives.
What is the best type of graph for her to use to analyze her data?
Correct Answer
A. A. bar grapH
Explanation
A bar graph is the best type of graph for Clara to use to analyze her data because it allows her to compare the number of rewards received by each mouse easily. The height of each bar represents the number of rewards, and the different bars represent each mouse. This type of graph is ideal for displaying and comparing categorical data, which is what Clara is collecting in her experiment.
7.
Scientists use prior experience to ____.
Correct Answer
B. B. make predictions about what will happen under certain circumstances
Explanation
Scientists use their prior experience to make predictions about what will happen under certain circumstances. By drawing on their knowledge and past observations, scientists can make informed guesses about the outcomes of experiments or events. This allows them to develop hypotheses and design experiments that can test these predictions. By using their prior experience, scientists can make more accurate and reliable predictions, which can ultimately contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
8.
After scientists analyze the results of their experiments, they ____.
Correct Answer
C. C. communicate those results to other people
Explanation
After scientists analyze the results of their experiments, they communicate those results to other people. This is an important step in the scientific process as it allows other scientists to review and replicate the experiments, verify the results, and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge. Communication of results also enables scientists to share their findings with the wider scientific community and the public, promoting transparency and collaboration in scientific research.
9.
Which of the following steps to solve a problem must be completed first?
Correct Answer
B. B. recognizing and identifying the problem
Explanation
Recognizing and identifying the problem must be completed first in order to solve a problem. Without understanding what the problem is, it is impossible to proceed with any other steps such as analyzing data, forming a hypothesis, or testing a hypothesis. Identifying the problem allows for a clear understanding of the issue at hand and enables the individual to take appropriate steps towards finding a solution.
10.
Which of the following steps to solve a problem is completed last?
Correct Answer
C. C. drawing conclusions
Explanation
Drawing conclusions is typically the final step in solving a problem. After analyzing data, recognizing and identifying the problem, and testing a hypothesis, drawing conclusions involves synthesizing the information gathered and making a decision or coming to a resolution. This step is crucial in problem-solving as it allows for the formulation of a solution or a plan of action based on the findings and analysis conducted earlier.
11.
A prediction or statement that can be tested is ____.
Correct Answer
D. D. a hypothesis
Explanation
A hypothesis is a prediction or statement that can be tested through experimentation or observation. It is an educated guess about the relationship between variables or the outcome of a particular situation. Hypotheses are important in the scientific method as they provide a basis for conducting research and testing theories. Unlike conclusions, observations, or controls, hypotheses are specifically formulated to be tested and either supported or refuted by evidence.
12.
A factor in an experiment that can change is ____.
Correct Answer
B. B. a variable
Explanation
In an experiment, a factor that can change is known as a variable. Variables are the factors that are intentionally manipulated or measured in order to observe their effect on the outcome of the experiment. They can be independent variables, which are manipulated by the researcher, or dependent variables, which are the outcomes or responses that are measured. Variables are important in experiments because they help to determine cause and effect relationships and provide the basis for drawing conclusions.
13.
A sample that is treated exactly like the other experimental groups except that the variable is not applied to it is a(n) ____.
Correct Answer
C. C. control
Explanation
A control group is a sample that is treated exactly like the other experimental groups, except that the variable being tested is not applied to it. This allows researchers to compare the results of the experimental groups to the control group and determine the effect of the variable being tested.
14.
Scientists conduct multiple trials of their experiments because ____.
Correct Answer
A. A. their results are more likely to be reliable
Explanation
Scientists conduct multiple trials of their experiments because their results are more likely to be reliable. By conducting multiple trials, scientists can gather more data and reduce the impact of random errors or anomalies. This increases the statistical significance of their findings and allows for more accurate conclusions to be drawn. Additionally, multiple trials help to identify any inconsistencies or variations in the results, allowing scientists to assess the reliability and validity of their experiments.
15.
A good way to organize and record your results and observations is ____.
Correct Answer
A. A. in a data table
Explanation
A data table is a systematic and organized way to record and organize results and observations. It allows for easy comparison and analysis of data, making it a good method for organizing and recording results and observations.