1.
In science, what is a scientific theory?
Correct Answer
C. An explanation for many hypotheses and observations
Explanation
A scientific theory is an explanation for many hypotheses and observations. It is a well-substantiated explanation that is based on a large body of evidence and has been extensively tested and confirmed through experimentation and observation. Unlike a hypothesis, which is a tentative explanation, a scientific theory is a comprehensive framework that can explain a wide range of phenomena and has stood the test of time. It is supported by empirical evidence and can be used to make predictions and guide further scientific inquiry.
2.
What is a scientific law?
Correct Answer
B. A scientific statement of how something works, not why
Explanation
A scientific law is a statement that describes how something works in the natural world, without providing an explanation for why it works that way. It is based on numerous experimental results and observations that consistently support the statement. Unlike a hypothesis or an explanation, a scientific law is a concise and general description of a phenomenon that has been repeatedly observed and verified.
3.
Which of the following is the best definition of science?
Correct Answer
B. The process of gathering knowledge about the natural world
Explanation
The best definition of science is the process of gathering knowledge about the natural world. Science involves systematic observation, experimentation, and analysis to understand and explain natural phenomena. It is not just about memorizing facts, reading knowledge, or focusing on the ancient world.
4.
You want to determine if a new diet medication will help rats to lose weight. Why is it necessary to have two sets of rats?
Correct Answer
C. To compare rats taking the new medication to rats without the medication
Explanation
To determine if a new diet medication will help rats lose weight, it is necessary to have two sets of rats to compare the effects of the medication. One set of rats will be given the new medication, while the other set will not receive any medication. By comparing the weight loss of the two groups, we can determine if the medication is effective in helping rats lose weight. This comparison is crucial in evaluating the efficacy of the new medication and establishing a baseline for comparison.
5.
What must you find out after conducting an experiment and collecting data?
Correct Answer
B. If the results support your hypothesis
Explanation
After conducting an experiment and collecting data, it is important to find out if the results support your hypothesis. This is crucial because the hypothesis is a proposed explanation or prediction for the observed phenomenon, and the experiment is designed to test its validity. If the results align with the hypothesis, it provides evidence to support the initial assumption. However, if the results do not support the hypothesis, it may indicate the need to revise or reject the initial hypothesis and explore alternative explanations.
6.
To __________ something means to draw a conclusion based on what you observe
Correct Answer
A. Infer
Explanation
To infer something means to draw a conclusion based on what you observe. When you infer, you are using the information you have gathered to make an educated guess or interpretation about a situation or event. This involves using your reasoning skills to connect the dots and make sense of the available evidence. It is different from hypothesizing or theorizing, which involve forming a possible explanation or prediction based on limited information or assumptions. Infix, on the other hand, is a grammatical term and does not relate to drawing conclusions.
7.
Which of the following is NOT a method that scientists might use to communicate their findings to other scientists?
Correct Answer
C. Mental telepathy
Explanation
Mental telepathy is not a method that scientists use to communicate their findings to other scientists. This is because mental telepathy refers to the ability to communicate thoughts or ideas directly from one mind to another without the need for any physical or verbal communication. While scientists may use various methods such as giving speeches, publishing articles in journals, and publishing reports on the internet to share their findings, mental telepathy is not a recognized or scientifically proven method of communication.
8.
A(n) __________ is a rule that describes a pattern in nature
Correct Answer
D. Scientific law
Explanation
A scientific law is a rule that describes a pattern in nature. It is a statement based on repeated observations and experiments that describes a fundamental principle or relationship in the natural world. Scientific laws are often expressed in mathematical equations and are universally applicable. They are well-established and widely accepted explanations for natural phenomena, providing a framework for understanding and predicting how the natural world behaves. Unlike theories, which are comprehensive explanations supported by evidence and can be modified or replaced, scientific laws are more focused and concise statements that describe specific patterns or relationships in nature.
9.
Information gathered during experiments is/are called __________.
Correct Answer
C. Data
Explanation
Data refers to the information that is collected or observed during experiments. It can be in the form of measurements, observations, or any other relevant information. Data is used to analyze and draw conclusions, make hypotheses, and develop theories based on the evidence gathered. Therefore, data is the correct answer for the given question.
10.
A(n) __________ is a prediction or explanation that can be tested by experimentation
Correct Answer
A. Hypothesis
Explanation
A hypothesis is a prediction or explanation that can be tested by experimentation. It is a proposed explanation based on limited evidence or observations that can be further investigated to determine its validity. Hypotheses are typically formulated in scientific research to guide the design and implementation of experiments, allowing scientists to gather data and evidence to support or refute the hypothesis.