Nature of Science Unit Test Review

What is the primary purpose of a control group in a scientific experiment?

• To test multiple variables at once
• To provide a basis for comparison with the experimental group
• To speed up the experimental process
• To make the experiment more complicated

Which of the following best describes a scientific theory?

• A random guess about how something works
• A proven fact that cannot be changed
• A well-tested explanation supported by evidence and observations
• A simple hypothesis that hasn't been tested

What is the difference between replication and repetition in scientific investigations?

• Replication is done by different scientists, while repetition is done by the same scientist
• Replication uses different methods, while repetition uses the same methods
• Replication is done once, while repetition is done multiple times
• There is no difference between the two terms

In an experiment testing how fertilizer affects plant growth, which is the dependent variable?

• The amount of fertilizer used
• The type of plant chosen
• The plant's growth rate
• The amount of water given

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

• Hypothesis, question, experiment, analysis, conclusion
• Question, hypothesis, experiment, analysis, conclusion
• Experiment, hypothesis, question, conclusion, analysis
• Analysis, experiment, hypothesis, question, conclusion

What distinguishes a scientific law from a scientific theory?

• Laws are more important than theories
• Laws describe what happens, while theories explain why it happens
• Laws can never be changed, but theories can
• Theories eventually become laws when proven

Which type of scientific investigation would be most appropriate for studying bird migration patterns?

• Controlled experiment
• Observational study
• Survey research
• Laboratory testing

What is the purpose of an independent variable in an experiment?

• It is the factor being measured
• It is the factor being changed by the scientist
• It is kept the same throughout the experiment
• It is eliminated from the experiment

Why is it important to have multiple trials (repetition) in an experiment?

• To make the experiment take longer
• To use more materials
• To reduce the impact of random errors
• To confuse other scientists

Are scientific theories true?

• Yes
• No