Scientific Method Exam Review

A new concept that is tested in a scientific investigation is known as

• a theory

• the hypothesis

• an inference

• an observation

A biologist in a laboratory reports a new discovery based on experimental results. If the experimental results are valid, biologists in other laboratories should be able to

• repeat the same experiment with a different variable and obtain the same results

• perform the same experiment and obtain different results

• repeat the same experiment and obtain the same results

• perform the same experiment under different experimental conditions and obtain the same results

An investigation was designed to determine the effect of ultraviolet light on mold spore growth. Two groups of mold spores were grown under identical conditions, except one group was exposed only to ultraviolet light, while the other group was grown in total darkness. In this investigation, the group of mold spores grown without receiving any ultraviolet light is known as the

• control

• hypothesis

• dependent variable

• limiting factor

A test was performed to determine the effect of mineral salts on plant growth. Identical plants were divided into 4 equal groups. Each pot contained an equal amount of nonmineral potting soil & one plant. To be valid, what should be added to the control group?

• Water

• Nitrogen Salts

• Potassium Salts

• Potassium and Phosphorus Salts

Which statement describes the best procedure to determine if a vaccine for a disease in a certain bird species is effective?

• Vaccinate 100 birds and expose all 100 to the disease.

• Vaccinate 100 birds and expose only 50 to the disease.

• Vaccinate 50 birds, do not vaccinate 50 other birds, and expose all 100 to the disease.

• Vaccinate 50 birds, do not vaccinate 50 other birds, and expose only the vaccinated birds to the disease.

Why do scientists consider any hypothesis valuable?

• A hypothesis requires no further investigation.

• A hypothesis may lead to further investigation even if it is disproved by the experiment.

• A hypothesis requires no further investigation if it is proved by the experiment.

• A hypothesis can be used to explain a conclusion even if it is disproved by the experiment.

Researchers performing a well-designed experiment should base their conclusions on

• the hypothesis of the experiment

• data from repeated trials of the experiment

• a small sample size to insure a reliable outcome of the experiment

• results predicted before performing the experiment

Which statement best describes a scientific theory?

• It is a collection of data designed to provide support for a prediction.

• It is an educated guess that can be tested by experimentation.

• It is a scientific fact that no longer requires any evidence to support it.

• It is a general statement that is supported by many scientific observations.

Which statement best describes a controlled experiment?

• It eliminates the need for dependent variables.

• It shows the effect of a dependent variable on an independent variable.

• It avoids the use of variables.

• It tests the effect of a single independent variable.

The first trial of a controlled experiment allows a scientist to isolate and test

• a logical conclusion

• a variety of information

• a single variable

• several variables