Text Chapter 1

Question 1

Steps of the Scientific Method

Answer 1

Make observations
   Formulate a hypothesis
   Devise a testable prediction
   Conduct a critical experiment
   Draw conclusions and make revisions

Question 2

Hypothesis

Answer 2

proposed explanation for observed phenomenon or question that can be tested

Question 3

Observation

Answer 3

objective notation of a phenomenon

Question 4

Prediction

Answer 4

a situation that will have one outcome if the hypothesis is true but will give a different outcome if the hypothesis is not true

Question 5

Variable

Answer 5

characteristics of an experimental system that are subject to change

Question 6

Control Group

Answer 6

a group of individuals who are treated identically to the experimental group with one exception: they are not exposed to the treatment

Question 7

Experimental Group

Answer 7

a group of individuals who are exposed to a particular treatment

Question 8

Independent Variable

Answer 8

can be measured at the start of the process, experimenter can select the values

Question 9

Dependent Variable

Answer 9

created by the process being observed, may show a relationship to the independent variable

Question 10

Null Hypothesis

Answer 10

no relationship exists between the two factors being tested

Question 11

Alternative Hypothesis

Answer 11

a specific relationship exists between the factors being tested

Question 12

Blind Experiment

Answer 12

The experimental subjects do not know which treatment, (if any) they are receiving, minimizes the placebo effect

Question 13

Double-blind Experiment

Answer 13

neither the experimental subjects nor the experimenter know which treatment the subject is receiving, reduces bias on the part of the experimenter

Question 14

Theory

Answer 14

supported by such a wide body of evidence that it is scientifically accepted as a factual
framework.

Question 15

Principle

Answer 15

a theory supported over a long period of time with a variety of experimental approaches