chapter1_flashcards_with_choices
What is the scientific method?
a) A belief-based system.
b) A process of gaining knowledge based on evidence from observation and experimentation.
c) A system of assumptions based on personal experiences.
d) A method of trial and error without logical reasoning.
b) A process of gaining knowledge based on evidence from observation and experimentation.
What is the difference between a hypothesis and a prediction?
a) A hypothesis is a causal explanation for a pattern, and a prediction is the observation expected if the hypothesis is true.
b) A hypothesis is a guess, while a prediction is based on evidence.
c) A hypothesis cannot be tested, while a prediction is an experiment.
d) A hypothesis is always correct, while a prediction is uncertain.
a) A hypothesis is a causal explanation for a pattern, and a prediction is the observation expected if the hypothesis is true.
Why does science proceed by rejecting hypotheses rather than proving them?
a) Hypotheses are always correct.
b) Science cannot prove anything; it can only disprove or reject hypotheses.
c) Once a hypothesis is made, it cannot be changed.
d) Hypotheses are proven once experiments are conducted.
b) Science cannot prove anything; it can only disprove or reject hypotheses.
What is a refutable hypothesis?
a) A hypothesis that can be falsified by evidence.
b) A hypothesis that has been proven.
c) A hypothesis that cannot be tested.
d) A hypothesis that is always correct.
a) A hypothesis that can be falsified by evidence.
What is the role of confounding variables in scientific studies?
a) Confounding variables strengthen the accuracy of experimental results.
b) Confounding variables are unknown factors that may influence the observed patterns.
c) Confounding variables ensure that the hypothesis is accurate.
d) Confounding variables only exist in controlled studies.
b) Confounding variables are unknown factors that may influence the observed patterns.
What is the difference between observational and manipulative studies?
a) Observational studies involve altering the system, while manipulative studies measure the system without change.
b) Observational studies involve measuring the system without changing it, while manipulative studies change one or more variables.
c) Both types of studies change the system.
d) Manipulative studies are more accurate than observational studies.
b) Observational studies involve measuring the system without changing it, while manipulative studies change one or more variables.
What is inductive reasoning in science?
a) Synthesizing general conclusions from specific observations.
b) Drawing specific conclusions based on broad theories.
c) Testing an observation through prediction.
d) Generalizing all results from a single experiment.
a) Synthesizing general conclusions from specific observations.
What is deductive reasoning in hypothesis-testing science?
a) Moving from general premises to a specific conclusion.
b) Observing patterns to create a hypothesis.
c) Starting with a specific conclusion and moving to a general rule.
d) Proving a hypothesis based on evidence.
a) Moving from general premises to a specific conclusion.
What is the purpose of a control in a manipulative study?
a) To manipulate the key variable of interest.
b) To provide a baseline comparison to minimize the effect of confounding variables.
c) To ensure the results are random.
d) To alter the entire experiment.
b) To provide a baseline comparison to minimize the effect of confounding variables.
What is the concept of inferential strength?
a) The ability to make broad claims from weak data.
b) The degree to which results support the hypothesis.
c) The certainty of scientific conclusions being true.
d) The likelihood that an experiment will fail.
b) The degree to which results support the hypothesis.
What is the folate hypothesis in relation to skin color evolution?
a) Melanin protects against UV-induced folate destruction, which is crucial for DNA synthesis.
b) Melanin has no effect on folate.
c) Folate is only produced in individuals with lighter skin.
d) Folate production increases with less exposure to sunlight.
a) Melanin protects against UV-induced folate destruction, which is crucial for DNA synthesis.
What does ‘descent with modification’ refer to in Darwin’s theory?
a) Species are fixed and unchanging.
b) All species descend from common ancestors and change over time.
c) Each generation is identical to the previous one.
d) Species are unrelated and evolve independently.
b) All species descend from common ancestors and change over time.
Why is it important that a hypothesis is refutable?
a) So it can be proven correct.
b) So it can be disproven, allowing for the elimination of incorrect explanations.
c) Because a refutable hypothesis is always true.
d) To show that science is uncertain.
b) So it can be disproven, allowing for the elimination of incorrect explanations.
How do environmental factors influence natural selection?
a) They determine which traits are neutral.
b) They favor traits that improve an organism’s survival and reproduction.
c) They have no influence on trait selection.
d) They result in random selection of traits.
b) They favor traits that improve an organism’s survival and reproduction.
What is the role of statistical hypothesis testing in scientific studies?
a) To determine if patterns observed are due to random sampling variation or real biological phenomena.
b) To prove a hypothesis is correct.
c) To eliminate all forms of error.
d) To increase variation in study results.
a) To determine if patterns observed are due to random sampling variation or real biological phenomena.
What is the concept of local adaptation?
a) All species are adapted to every environment.
b) Populations evolve traits that are suited to their local environment.
c) Local adaptation occurs when species migrate.
d) Local adaptation only happens in isolated populations.
b) Populations evolve traits that are suited to their local environment.
What is a reciprocal transplant experiment?
a) An experiment where organisms are moved between different environments to test their adaptation.
b) An experiment where the same environment is studied multiple times.
c) An experiment that prevents adaptation.
d) An experiment that studies organisms without manipulation.
a) An experiment where organisms are moved between different environments to test their adaptation.
What is the main source of new genetic variation in a population?
a) Mutations.
b) Acclimation.
c) Environmental factors.
d) Artificial selection.
a) Mutations.
How do transitional fossils provide evidence for evolution?
a) They show intermediate forms between ancient and modern species, demonstrating gradual change.
b) They show species that are unrelated.
c) They show that evolution happens in large jumps.
d) They disprove Darwin’s theory.
a) They show intermediate forms between ancient and modern species, demonstrating gradual change.
What role do genetic mutations play in natural selection?
a) They provide new genetic material that may result in advantageous traits.
b) They always result in harmful traits.
c) Mutations prevent evolution from occurring.
d) They occur only when species migrate.
a) They provide new genetic material that may result in advantageous traits.
