Scientific Thinking

What should be the first step to solve a problem according to the scientific method? A: forming a hypothesis B: testing a hypothesis C: analyzing data D: recognizing and identifying the problem

In 2005 a possible new planet was discovered in our solar system. Scientists are now working to determine whether this new body is actually a planet or some other type of natural satellite. This work by scientists demonstrates that A: scientists are rarely correct B: scientific knowledge may be modified as new information is obtained C: our technology is insufficient to say anything for sure about the solar system D: new planets are being formed in our solar system all the time

In the early 1600's it was commonly believed that flies spontaneously developed out of raw meat. A scientist named Redi scientifically tested this theory and determined that the meat attracted flies who laid their eggs on the meat, the meat did not produce the flies. This is an example of the concept that A: the scientific method can be used to reevaluate existing theories. B: the scientific method has only been in use since the 1900s. C: the scientific method is not as reliable as historical understanding. D: the scientific method only works with modern technology.

Robert Hooke was the first scientist to discover that living things were made up cells. Why hadn't anyone discovered this before him? A: scientists weren't allowed to dissect animals. B: the development of new technology - the light microscope - allowed seeing with magnification C: no one had thought about it before D: all of the above

The process used to investigate the world around us is called A: controls. B: a hypothesis. C: the scientific method. D: a theory.

Before an experiment is designed, the experimenter does extensive research about the topic that he will be testing and the previous research that has been done in that area. Why is this an essential part of the scientific method? A: it helps scientists prove others wrong B: it helps scientists to only repeat other experiments C: it is important to follow copyright laws D: it helps the experimenter to make predictions about what will happen under certain testing circumstances

Great scientists don't only ask "what" questions, they ask "why" questions. This demonstrates A: that inquiry is the foundation of science B: scientists start out without any knowledge C: that scientists don't care about details D: all of the above

Biologists, chemists, geologists, and physicists all use similar techniques but have different philosophies of the scientific method. A: True B: False

A chemist has developed a new way to produce energy from chemical reactions. Why is it important for him to keep detailed and accurate records? A: so that no one copies his work B: so that his research can be verified and duplicated C: so that the predicted results are obtained D: so that no human subjects are harmed

The independent variable in a scientific experiment is the factor that is changed. A: True B: False