Bio H - Methods of science

14 important questions on Bio H - Methods of science

What is the first step in the sequence of events in scientific methods?

Observe an unexplained phenomenon.

How do scientists design an experiment?

In a controlled experiment, scientists change only one factor at a time. The factor that is changed in an experiment is called the independent variable. It is the tested factor, and it might affect the outcome of the experiment. A dependent variable is something that results from or depends on changes to the independent variable. In our example, the vitamin is the independent variable and energy level is the dependent variable. A constant in an experiment remains fixed, while the independent and dependent variables change.

What is the main idea of the section "Methods of Science"?

Biologists use specific methods when conducting research.
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What two kinds of data do scientists collect?

Information gained from observations is called data. Data in the form of numbers is called quantitative data. Quantitative data might measure time, temperature, length, mass, area, volume, density, or other factors. Qualitative data are descriptions of what the observer senses. Everyone senses things differently. As a result, qualitative data can vary from one observer to another.

Why do biologists use tables and graphs?

Biologists often display data in tables and graphs to make patterns easier to detect. The data about the mass of an anole, a type of lizard, are listed in the table below. The data are plotted on the graph. Note the regular pattern in the graph. The mass increases over a three-day period and then levels off for three days. Then it increases again.

What are the key points under "What You'll Learn"?

  • The difference between an observation and an inference
  • How a control, an independent variable, and a dependent variable differ

What do scientists do with their reports for peer review?

Scientists write a report of their experiments for peer review. Other scientists in the same field examine the methods, analysis, and conclusions in the report. If the reviewers agree that the report has value, then the report is published in a scientific journal.

How does scientific inquiry begin according to the text?

Scientific inquiry begins with observation.

What happens if the actual results and expected results do not match?

Refine and test an alternate hypothesis.

What should you do if you have opportunities to do your own investigations in biology?

As you study biology, you might have opportunities to do your own investigations. If so, develop a research plan based on the scientific methods described in this chapter. Ask meaningful questions. Form hypotheses. Collect data by conducting careful experiments. Analyze the data. Draw conclusions and report them.

What is observation described as in the text?

Observation is a direct method of gathering information in an orderly way.

What is the purpose of a safety symbol?

A safety symbol is a logo designed to alert you about a specific danger. Refer to the safety symbols chart at the front of the textbook before beginning any field or lab activity. Learn where safety equipment is located in the classroom. You are responsible for performing your investigations safely at all times.

What is serendipity in scientific research?

Serendipity is the occurrence of accidental or unexpected, but fortunate, results.

What is the role of biologists in the field according to the text?

Biologists work in many settings, such as laboratories, universities, and museums, using similar methods to gather information and answer questions.

The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:

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