Mid-Term Exam Intervention in Physics

What is the most accurate definition of physics as a branch of science?

• Studies only the motion of objects

• Analyzes living organisms and their functions

• Examines the fundamental principles governing matter, energy, and their interactions

• Primarily focuses on chemical reactions between substances

Which of the following is NOT considered a major branch of physics?

• Mechanics

• Thermodynamics

• Paleontology

• Electromagnetism

What is the correct sequence of steps in the scientific method?

• Hypothesis, observation, experimentation, conclusion

• Observation, hypothesis, experimentation, analysis, conclusion

• Experimentation, observation, hypothesis, conclusion

• Conclusion, hypothesis, observation, experimentation

What is the purpose of controlled variables in the scientific method?

• To determine the accuracy of measurements

• To ensure only one factor is being tested at a time

• To speed up the experimental process

• To replace the need for multiple trials

Which of the following best describes a scientific theory?

• An educated guess that requires testing

• A statement of fact that cannot be proven wrong

• A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world

• A mathematical equation describing a phenomenon

Why is Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation considered a scientific "law"?

• It was proposed by a famous scientist

• It describes what happens without explaining why

• It has never been questioned by other scientists

• It is only applicable on Earth

How is the number 0.00000456 expressed in scientific notation?

• 4.56 x 10^-5

• 4.56 x 10^-6

• 456 x 10^-8

• 4.56 x 10^6

What is the result of multiplying (3.0 x 10^4) by (2.0 x 10^-2) in scientific notation?

• 6.0 x 10^2

• 6.0 x 10^6

• 5.0 x 10^2

• 6.0 x 10^-2

Which statement about uncertainty in measurement is TRUE?

• More precise instruments always yield more accurate results

• Random errors can be eliminated by taking a single careful measurement

• Systematic errors can be reduced by taking multiple measurements

• All measurements contain some degree of uncertainty

If a student measures the length of a pencil five times and gets 12.2 cm, 12.3 cm, 12.1 cm, 12.2 cm, and 12.1 cm, how would the uncertainty in this measurement be best characterized?

• ±0.1 cm

• ±0.2 cm

• ±0.05 cm

• ±1.0 cm