1.2: The Nature of Science

a testable idea that attempts to explain a phenomenon or answer a scientific question (an educated guess)

hypothesis

a specific statement about what will happen if a hypothesis is true

prediction

the variable a scientist manipulates in an experiment

independent variable

a variable that depends on the conditions set up in an experiment (responding variables)

dependent variable

a study in which all variables are controlled except for the one variable being investigated

controlled study

information gathered from a study

data

What are two components of science?

Science is both a systematic process for learning about the natural world and a summary of what scientists already have learned.

What does the natural world include?

Every part of our physical environment and the forces and energies that operate on and within our environment.

What is the goal of science?

To discover how the rules of the natural world operate and what effect they have.

How do scientists examine the workings of the natural world?

by collecting evidence through observation

Explain the following statement: "Nothing in science can be absolutely proven no matter how much evidence is collected."

The universe is dynamic (always changing) and so is our ability to observe it. We can never stop testing what we know to see if it continues to hold up. We keep collecting data to refine and support what we know.

Which of the following statements best describers the process of science?
A. It is mysterious
B. It is predictable
C. It proceeds in a linear fashion.
D. It produces knowledge over time.

D. It produces knowledge over time.

Which of the following plays an especially important role in the early stages of an investigation?
A. making observations
B. gathering data
C. interpreting data
D. making predictions

A. making observations

Which of the following is NOT involved in testing ideas?
A. making predictions
B. making observations
C. making policy decisions
D. conducting experiments

C. making policy decisions

What must scientists do if a large number of test refute (not support) their hypothesis?
A. repeat each test
B. publish a report
C. reject the test results
D. reject the hypothesis

D. reject the hypothesis

What is the relationship between hypothesis and predictions?

Hypotheses generate predictions.

What do scientists use models for?

To generate predictions when they can't observe a phenomenon directly.

Name two methods scientists use to test predictions.

controlled experiments and observational studies

What is the difference between an independent variable and a dependent variable?

IV depends on nothing (cause), DV depends on IV (effect)

Briefly define correlation

A meaningful and predictable relationship among variables.

Why is it important to control all variables except one when studying cause-and-effect relationships?

To be more confident that any differences observed were caused by the factor being investigated (IV).

Why are quantitative data particularly helpful to scientists?

because numbers are precise and easy to compare

What activities make up the process of science?

Making observations, hypothesis, experiment, organize & analyze data, and conclusion.

What is controlled in a controlled study?

All variables except the one being studied.