MODULE 5
Define Independent Variable.
The variable deliberately changed to observe its effect on the dependent variable.
Give one example of a digital technology used in investigations.
Temperature probe, digital pressure sensor, colorimeter .....
What is an example of pseudoscience?
Astrology, homeopathy, numerology, iridology
Give one example of Aboriginal technology used for sustainable resource management.
Fish traps / fire-stick farming / waterhole protection.
Define hypothesis.
A testable prediction that explains a phenomenon.
Who discovered that Helicobacter pylori caused stomach ulcers? (Full name =Bonus Points)
Barry Marshall and Robin Warren.
What role did X-ray crystallography play in science?
It revealed the structure of DNA.
What is confirmation bias?
Tendency to only seek/interpret evidence that supports existing beliefs.
What is one reason scientists follow ethical guidelines?
To protect participants, the environment, and cultural knowledge.
Why do we keep controlled variables constant?
To ensure a fair test so only the independent variable affects the dependent.
Differentiate between validity and reliability.
Validity = measures what it is intended to measure (fair test). Reliability = consistency of results when repeated.
Compare analogue vs digital devices in terms of errors.
Analogue prone to parallax/random error; digital more precise, less user error, systematic error.
What is one sign a claim might be pseudoscientific?
It avoids testing / makes vague predictions / rejects evidence.
Why do governments fund some areas of science more than others?
To support national priorities like health, defence, or economic growth.
What is the Uncertainty when using a ruler vs a digital thermometer?
Ruler = ± half smallest division; Digital = ± last significant digit.
Von Helmont concluded plants gained mass from water, not soil. How did his use of quantitative methods improve the reliability of his investigation compared to previous qualitative-only approaches?
Quantitative mass measurements provided repeatable, numerical evidence, reducing reliance on subjective observation and increasing reliability.
Why is the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) essential to particle physics?
It provided the high-energy collisions and detection needed to discover the Higgs boson.
Compare the methods used in astronomy and astrology. Why is one science and the other pseudoscience?
Astronomy relies on systematic observation, measurement, and peer-reviewed evidence; astrology uses vague, untestable predictions and lacks empirical support.
Why is it important for scientists to communicate their findings to the public?
So people can make informed decisions and trust scientific evidence.
What is the difference between random and systematic errors?
Random = unpredictable (affects reliability). Systematic = consistent bias (affects accuracy).
Evaluate Eratosthenes’ method of measuring Earth’s circumference (strength + limitation).
Strength – used geometry and measurement to produce close estimate. Limitation – assumptions (distance, Earth spherical, unit conversion) led to errors.
Assess the ethical implications of using Indigenous knowledge (e.g., plant medicines) in modern biotechnology. Looking for at least 2 benefits and 2 risks.
Benefits: new pharmaceuticals, cultural recognition. Risks: exploitation, loss of cultural ownership, profit without benefit-sharing. Requires ethical partnerships and consent.
Why is the phrase “correlation does not equal causation” important when evaluating scientific and pseudoscientific claims? Provide an example.
Correlation shows two variables occur together, but doesn’t prove one causes the other. Pseudosciences often confuse correlation with causation (e.g., claiming vaccines cause autism because of timing, despite no causal evidence). Science uses controlled experiments to test causation.
Why is international collaboration important in science?
Global problems (e.g., pandemics, climate change) need shared data and solutions.
A student measures 40 mL with a beaker instead of a burette. Analyse.
Beaker → poor accuracy (not precise), reduced reliability (inconsistent), threatens validity (not measuring intended variable properly).