Nature of Science
Maria and Carlos are investigating which type of ball bounces the highest. They use a tennis ball, a basketball, and a rubber ball, dropping each from the same height three times and measuring the bounce. What is one important thing they should keep the same each time to make their experiment fair?
They should keep the height from which they drop the ball the same each time. This ensures that the only variable being tested is the type of ball.
Describe the three basic states of matter (solid, liquid, gas) and give an example of each. How do the particles in each state move?
List three different forms of energy. Give an example of how each form of energy is used in everyday life.
What is our solar system? Name the eight planets in order from the sun.
Our solar system is made up of the sun and all the objects that orbit it. The eight planets in order from the sun are: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.
What are the basic needs of all living things?
The basic needs of all living things include air (or other gases for respiration), water, food (or a source of energy), and shelter (or a suitable environment).
Scientists often use models to help them understand things they cannot see directly, like the particles that make up matter. Give an example of a model a scientist might use and explain what it helps to show.
One example is a model of the solar system. It helps to show the relative positions and order of the planets around the sun, even though we can't see the entire solar system at once. Another example is a model of an atom, showing the nucleus and electrons.
The total weight of the sugar and water should not change significantly. When sugar dissolves, it breaks down into smaller particles that are still present within the water. Mass is conserved during a physical change.
The total weight of the sugar and water should not change significantly. When sugar dissolves, it breaks down into smaller particles that are still present within the water. Mass is conserved during a physical change.
Explain the difference between heat and temperature.
Heat is the transfer of thermal energy between objects at different temperatures. Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles in a substance (how hot or cold something is).
What are some of the main differences between the inner planets and the outer planets in our solar system?
Explain the role of producers, consumers, and decomposers in a food web. Give an example of each.
Explain the difference between an observation and an inference. Give an example of each based on a plant growing in a classroom.
An observation is something you directly sense or notice (e.g., "The plant has grown two centimeters this week"). An inference is an explanation or interpretation based on observations and prior knowledge (e.g., "The plant has grown because it is getting enough sunlight and water").
What happens to water when it evaporates? What state of matter does it become?
When water evaporates, it turns into a gas called water vapor. The water molecules gain energy and move far apart, escaping into the air.
When you rub your hands together quickly, they get warmer. What type of energy transformation is taking place?
Mechanical energy (motion) is being transformed into heat energy (thermal energy) due to friction.
What causes day and night on Earth?
Day and night are caused by the Earth's rotation on its axis. As Earth spins, different parts of the planet face the sun (day) and then turn away from the sun (night).
Describe the process of photosynthesis. What do plants take in, and what do they release?
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use light energy, water, and carbon dioxide to create glucose (sugar) for food and release oxygen as a byproduct. They take in carbon dioxide and water.
Why is it important for scientists to share the results of their experiments with other scientists?
Sharing results allows other scientists to review and verify the findings, potentially leading to new discoveries or identifying errors. It also helps build a larger body of scientific knowledge.
Give an example of a physical change and a chemical change. How can you tell the difference between them?
How does the sun's energy get to Earth?
The sun's energy travels to Earth as electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, infrared radiation, and ultraviolet radiation.
What causes the seasons on Earth? Explain why it is warmer in the summer than in the winter in Florida.
The seasons are caused by the Earth's tilt on its axis as it revolves around the sun. During summer in Florida, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted towards the sun, resulting in more direct sunlight and longer days. During winter, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the sun, resulting in less direct sunlight and shorter days.
Give an example of how an animal's physical characteristics (adaptations) help it to survive in its environment.
A bird with a long, thin beak (adaptation) can reach nectar deep inside flowers, helping it to get food and survive. A rabbit with strong hind legs (adaptation) can run quickly to escape predators.
Imagine a scientist finds evidence that contradicts a widely accepted scientific idea. What might happen next in the scientific community?
Other scientists would likely examine the evidence carefully, try to reproduce the results, and debate the findings. If the evidence is strong and consistently supported, the widely accepted idea might be revised or changed over time.
You have a mixture of sand and iron filings. What method could you use to separate them, and why would that method work?
You could use a magnet to separate them. Iron is magnetic and will be attracted to the magnet, while sand is not.
Give an example of how electrical energy can be transformed into another form of energy.
A light bulb transforms electrical energy into light energy and heat energy. A motor transforms electrical energy into mechanical energy (motion).
Describe the different parts of the water cycle.
The water cycle includes:
What are the main parts of a plant and what is the function of each part (roots, stem, leaves, flower)?