Scientific Method and Experimental Design: Observations, Hypotheses, Predictions, Control vs. Experimental, Replication

Flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture notes on observation, hypothesis testing, prediction, control vs experimental groups, replication, and maintaining constants in experimental design.

What is the basic approach to science described in the notes?

Observation leads to questions; science relies on inquiry and forming testable hypotheses using if-then predictions.

What is the If… Then… logic used for in science?

To express a hypothesis and its testable prediction; if the hypothesis is correct and the test is performed, the outcome should match the prediction.

What does it mean to reject a hypothesis?

Based on evidence from testing, you may reject the hypothesis; rejection does not automatically mean the alternative is proven—further testing is needed.

What is a controlled experiment?

An experiment with an experimental group that receives the treatment and a control group used for comparison.

What is the purpose of a control group?

Provides a baseline to determine what would happen without the treatment and to compare effects of the treatment.

What is replication in an experiment?

Having multiple replicates of each treatment and control to ensure results are reliable and not due to random chance.

In the fake snake example, what was being tested?

Whether warning coloration reduces predation on non-toxic fake snakes, with other factors held constant.

Why must all other factors be kept constant in an experiment?

To ensure that any observed effect is due to the variable being tested (the treatment) rather than other variables.

Why is it important to keep time the same across groups?

To ensure equal opportunity for effects to occur, avoiding time-related biases.

What does the nitrogen plant example illustrate?

If testing the effect of a nitrogen variable, you compare plants with and without nitrogen while keeping all other factors constant.

What is the relationship between hypothesis testing and acceptance?

Hypotheses can be falsified; acceptance is not guaranteed and depends on accumulating robust evidence and replication.

What is the role of observations in science?

They form the basis for questions and hypotheses, guiding inquiry and experiments.