Science Terminology

In order to generate the data in the table, scientists repeated the measurement of energy content in each of the fuels six times using the same procedure and equipment. The results they obtained were all within 0.2% of each figure listed in the table. As there was a close agreement within each set of results, it can be said that there is a (VCAA 2020)

• high level of accuracy.

• high degree of precision.

• lack of bias during the experimental procedure.

• lack of quantitative data within each of the sets.

The expected result, based on previous standard measurements at this location for freshwater at 20 °C, was 10.1 ppm. In scientific terms, the results collected by the students could be said to have (VCAA 2019)

• low accuracy and low precision.

• high accuracy and high precision.

• high accuracy and low precision.

• low accuracy and high precision.

VCE Environmental Science students carried out a study to determine the impact of humans on a lake environment. They calculated the species richness in two areas of an urban lake. One half of the lake area is protected from human impact and the other half is used for recreation. What is the dependent variable in this study? (VCAA 2022)

• the level of human impact

•  the number of different species

• the protected area versus the unprotected area of the lake

• baseline data showing the overall number of organisms in the entire lake area

When conducting any experiment, Environmental Science students manage a range of variables. Controlled variables are variables that (VCAA 2021)

• the students measure accurately over time to record any changes or variations.

• if not measured and recorded by the students, could cause the hypothesis to be falsely supported or refuted.

• the students keep under control and that they vary and adjust according to the particular experimental method.

• could change, but that the students intentionally keep constant to more clearly isolate the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent variable.

Which one of the following types of population data was collected by the students?

•  anecdotal

•  qualitative

•  quantitative

• extrapolative

Scientists investigating a particular Mediterranean island for a species of Podarcis lizard decided to use an adequate number of randomly placed quadrats throughout the island to assess the range and diversity of these lizards by counting the burrows found in each quadrat. Why did the scientists use randomly placed quadrats? (VCAA 2017)

• Quadrats are easier to use than other methods when measuring lizard populations.

• Data collected in this way will minimise experimental bias and will be scientifically valid.

• They wanted to find interesting locations spread over the entire island where lizards hide from predators.

• Quadrats are the best way to measure species and population numbers over large areas, such as an entire island.