Lab Safety and Scientific Method Quiz

What is the first step of the scientific method?

• Collecting data

• Asking a question

• Drawing a conclusion

• Making a hypothesis

Answer explanation

The first step of the scientific method is asking a question. This initiates the process by identifying a problem or area of interest that requires investigation.

Which of the following is a variable that is changed on purpose in an experiment?

• Dependent variable

• Independent variable

• Controlled variable

• Random variable

Answer explanation

The independent variable is the one that is intentionally changed in an experiment to observe its effect on the dependent variable. In contrast, the dependent variable is measured, while controlled variables remain constant.

What should you always wear to protect your eyes during a science experiment?

• Sunglasses

• Safety goggles

• Reading glasses

• No protection needed

Answer explanation

Safety goggles are essential for protecting your eyes during science experiments, as they shield against harmful chemicals, debris, and other hazards. Sunglasses and reading glasses do not provide adequate protection.

Which of the following is NOT a step in the scientific method?

• Making observations

• Forming a hypothesis

• Ignoring results

• Conducting an experiment

Answer explanation

Ignoring results is NOT a step in the scientific method, as it contradicts the process of analyzing data. The scientific method involves making observations, forming hypotheses, and conducting experiments to draw conclusions.

What is the purpose of a control variable in an experiment?

• To change the outcome

• To keep conditions the same

• To measure the results

• To make the experiment harder

Answer explanation

The purpose of a control variable in an experiment is to keep conditions the same. This ensures that any changes in the outcome can be attributed to the independent variable, allowing for a fair test.

Which of the following is a common lab hazard?

• Spilled water

• Broken glass

• Loud noises

• Bright lights

Answer explanation

Broken glass is a common lab hazard as it can cause cuts and injuries. Unlike spilled water, loud noises, or bright lights, broken glass poses a direct physical risk to safety in the laboratory environment.

If a chemical spills on your skin, what should you do first?

• Wipe it off with a towel

• Wash the area with plenty of water

• Ignore it

• Cover it with a bandage

Answer explanation

If a chemical spills on your skin, the first step is to wash the area with plenty of water to dilute and remove the substance, preventing further skin damage. Wiping or covering it may trap the chemical.

Which of the following is the dependent variable in an experiment?

• The variable you change

• The variable you measure

• The variable you keep the same

• The variable you ignore

Answer explanation

The dependent variable is the one you measure in an experiment to see how it changes in response to the independent variable. Therefore, the correct choice is 'The variable you measure'.

Why is it important to recognize risks in the lab?

• To make experiments more exciting

• To prevent accidents and injuries

• To finish experiments faster

• To use more chemicals

Answer explanation

Recognizing risks in the lab is crucial to prevent accidents and injuries. This ensures a safe working environment, allowing researchers to focus on their experiments without the threat of harm.

Which of the following is a correct order of steps in the scientific method?

• Hypothesis, Question, Experiment, Conclusion

• Question, Hypothesis, Experiment, Conclusion

• Experiment, Conclusion, Hypothesis, Question

• Conclusion, Experiment, Hypothesis, Question

Answer explanation

The correct order in the scientific method starts with a Question, followed by forming a Hypothesis, then conducting an Experiment, and finally drawing a Conclusion. Thus, the right choice is: Question, Hypothesis, Experiment, Conclusion.