Concept 1
What is a fact in science?
A verifiable observation, such as "Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius."
Define qualitative observation.
An observation that describes qualities, such as color, texture, or smell.
What constitutes a hypothesis?
A testable prediction about the relationship between variables, often framed as "If [IV], then [DV]."
What is the first step in the scientific method?
Ask a question based on observations.
What is the term for a substance that has an affinity for water?
Hydrophilic
How does a scientific law differ from a theory?
A scientific law describes patterns in nature, while a theory explains why those patterns exist.
What is the difference between an independent variable and a dependent variable?
The independent variable is what the experimenter changes, while the dependent variable is what is measured or observed.
Differentiate between observation and inference.
An observation is a factual description based on sensory input, while an inference is a conclusion drawn from observations.
Why is background research important before conducting an experiment?
It helps to define the purpose of the experiment and informs the hypothesis.
Provide an example of a hydrophobic substance.
Oil, which does not dissolve in water.
Provide an example of a scientific law.
Newton's laws of motion or the Law of Conservation of Mass.
What are quantitative observations? Provide an example.
Observations that use numbers to measure something, such as "4 feet long" or "100 mL."
Why is data analysis crucial after conducting an experiment?
Data analysis helps identify trends and determine if the hypothesis was supported or rejected.
How should a hypothesis be structured?
It should be framed as "If [IV], then [DV]."
What is a polar molecule, and why is water considered one?
A polar molecule has an unequal distribution of charges; water is polar because it has a positive and a negative side.
When leaving a movie theater, a person notices that the sidewalk is now wet. If the person assumes it rained during the movie, the person is making an....
an inference.
Why is it important to have constants in an experiment?
Constants ensure that all aspects of the experiment are identical except for the independent variable, allowing for a fair test.
What is the role of the experimental group in an experiment?
The experimental group is the group that receives the treatment or condition being tested.
What is the significance of communicating scientific results?
It allows others to verify findings, replicate experiments, and contributes to the body of scientific knowledge.
How does water's high specific heat benefit organisms?
It helps to buffer large temperature fluctuations, allowing life to thrive in aquatic environments.
Micah needs 25 mL of motor oil to test his combustion engine. Which tool would give him the most precise
measurement?
A. Beaker B. Flask C. Test tube D. Graduated cylinder
D. Graduated cylinder
Describe how data precision and accuracy differ.
Precision refers to how close measurements are to each other, while accuracy refers to how close measurements are to the accepted value.
What is the purpose of a control group?
The control group serves as a baseline for comparison, helping to isolate the effects of the independent variable.
Why is science considered a method of knowing about the world?
Science relies on observations and experiments that can be tested and verified through empirical evidence.
What are macromolecules, and name the four types essential for life.
Macromolecules are large organic molecules essential for life, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.