#1
Which step of the scientific method involves making observations and asking questions?
Observation
ExplanationObservation involves gathering information through the senses and formulating questions about the natural world.
#2
In a scientific investigation, what does the term 'peer review' mean?
A review by independent experts in the field before publication
ExplanationPeer review involves evaluation of research by independent experts in the same field before it is published, ensuring quality and reliability.
#3
What is the primary purpose of statistical analysis in experimental research?
To summarize data and draw meaningful conclusions
ExplanationStatistical analysis helps interpret data, summarize findings, and draw meaningful conclusions from experimental results.
#4
What is the purpose of a literature review in the scientific method?
To explore existing research and knowledge on the topic.
ExplanationA literature review examines existing research to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic before conducting new experiments.
#5
What is a placebo in experimental design?
A substance that has no effect on the dependent variable.
ExplanationA placebo is a substance with no active ingredients, used to control for psychological effects in experimental studies.
#6
What is the role of a control group in an experiment?
To provide a baseline for comparison
ExplanationA control group serves as a standard for comparison, helping researchers assess the impact of the independent variable.
#7
In the scientific method, what is a hypothesis?
A possible explanation for an observation
ExplanationA hypothesis is a testable statement proposing a potential explanation for observed phenomena in an experiment.
#8
Why is replication important in experimental design?
To validate results and ensure reliability
ExplanationReplication involves repeating experiments to confirm findings, enhancing the reliability and credibility of the results.
#9
What is a confounding variable in an experiment?
A variable that is not controlled and can affect the outcome
ExplanationA confounding variable is an uncontrolled factor that can influence the results of an experiment, leading to inaccurate conclusions.
#10
What is the difference between an independent variable and a dependent variable in an experiment?
An independent variable is manipulated, while a dependent variable is measured and observed.
ExplanationThe independent variable is deliberately changed, while the dependent variable is observed and measured in response to the changes.
#11
What is the purpose of randomization in experimental design?
To eliminate bias and confounding variables
ExplanationRandomization ensures equal chance of assignment, minimizing biases and external factors that could impact results.
#12
What is a double-blind experiment?
An experiment where neither the participants nor the researchers know who is in the control or experimental group
ExplanationDouble-blind experiments prevent biases by keeping both participants and researchers unaware of group assignments.
#13
What is the difference between accuracy and precision in scientific measurements?
Accuracy is the closeness of a measurement to the true value, while precision is the consistency of repeated measurements.
ExplanationAccuracy measures how close a result is to the true value, while precision assesses the consistency of repeated measurements.
#14
What does the term 'falsifiability' mean in the context of scientific hypotheses?
The potential for a hypothesis to be proven false.
ExplanationFalsifiability refers to the testable nature of hypotheses, allowing them to be proven false through experimentation or observation.
#15
In the context of experimental design, what is a crossover design?
An experimental design where participants serve as their own control.
ExplanationIn a crossover design, participants experience both experimental and control conditions, serving as their own comparison group.