Question 1

Which of the following is FALSE regarding a scientific theory?

Accepted Answer

A scientific theory is not based only on observations, but also on the synthesis and interpretation of those observations to explain a phenomenon.

Question 2

2.4.

-Refer to Infographic 2.4. Explain why in science absolute proof is not required.

Accepted Answer

Since all scientific information is open to further investigation, it is not expected or required to have absolute proof in science.

Question 3

Which of the following ensures that only quality scientific studies that have been well controlled and avoid bias appear in scientific journals?

Accepted Answer

Peer review is a process where scientific studies are evaluated by experts in the same field to ensure that the study was conducted properly, the data is reliable, and the conclusions are justified. This process helps to weed out poorly designed studies and studies with biased or untrustworthy results, ensuring that only high-quality studies are published in scientific journals. Funding agencies may also require well-controlled studies, but they do not have direct control over what is published in scientific journals. Independent variables are a necessary component of scientific studies, but they do not ensure that a study is well controlled and bias-free. Anecdotal evidence is not reliable or objective, and the scientist responsible for the experiment may have biases or make mistakes, so their involvement alone does not ensure the quality of a study.

Question 4

Cell theory states that all living organisms are made up of one or more cells. Which of the following statements is FALSE regarding this theory?

Accepted Answer

While all known living organisms are made of one or more cells, it is still possible that a new discovery may be made of an organism that does not fit this criterion. Therefore, choice D is false.

Question 5

Which of the following hypotheses is NOT testable?

Accepted Answer

The hypothesis that reincarnation exists cannot be tested as it is a belief or a claim that is not based on empirical evidence or scientific principles.

Question 6

Why can scientific opinions change over time?

Accepted Answer

All of the statements A, B, and C are true. Scientific opinions are always considered tentative, as new evidence or information can change our understanding of a concept or process. As scientific research continues, we may learn more and adjust our conclusions accordingly. Additionally, new evidence may be discovered that overturns a previously held belief or theory. Therefore, it is essential to remain open-minded and willing to revise our opinions as new evidence emerges.

Question 7

How does a peer-reviewed article compare to an Internet blog?

Accepted Answer

A peer-reviewed article undergoes a rigorous evaluation process by experts in the field prior to publication, ensuring that the study design and results are valid and reliable. In contrast, an Internet blog can be created and published by anyone without any peer review process, and may or may not contain accurate or reliable information.

Question 8

A(n) ______ is a hypothesis that has been widely accepted and extensively and rigorously tested.

Accepted Answer

A theory is a well-established and extensively tested explanation for a phenomenon or set of phenomena. Theories are supported by a large body of evidence and are widely accepted within the scientific community.

Question 9

The first step of the scientific process is a(n) __________.

Accepted Answer

The first step of the scientific process is observation, where a scientist makes an initial observation or identifies a problem to investigate. From there, they can develop a hypothesis, make predictions, design and conduct experiments, and undergo peer review.

Question 10

In this chapter it has been made clear that the process used to obtain a body of knowledge (facts and explanations) is more important than the body of knowledge itself. Why is this?

Accepted Answer

The answer of In this chapter it has been made...

Question 11

Describe the difference between a hypothesis and a scientific theory?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Describe the difference between a hypothesis and...

Question 12

Infographic 2.6.
-Refer to Infographic 2.6. Taken together, do these two studies prove that lower ozone levels directly cause skin cancer in humans? Why or why not?

Accepted Answer

The answer of  Infographic 2.6.
-Refer to Infographic 2.6. Taken...

Question 13

Peer review is _______________.

Accepted Answer

Peer review is the process by which a group of scientists in the same field evaluate the report and determine if it is of high enough quality to publish in a journal. It provides a critical evaluation of the research methodology and conclusions to ensure that the research is valid, reliable, and significant.

Question 14

Which is TRUE regarding the following statements? (1) "Higher levels of greenhouse gases cause increased warming of the troposphere."
(2) "People who are good go to heaven when they die."

Accepted Answer

Statement (1) is a scientific hypothesis that can be tested and has been supported by long-standing scientific theories and evidence. Statement (2) is a belief based on religious or philosophical ideas, and cannot be tested or proven through scientific methods. Thus, option C is the best choice as only statement (1) is suitable for science.

Question 15

A(n) _____ is a possible explanation for what is observed that is based on some previous knowledge.

Accepted Answer

A hypothesis is a possible explanation for what is observed that is based on some previous knowledge. A prediction is a statement about what will happen in the future based on previous observations. Peer review is the evaluation of work by experts in the same field. A theory is a well-supported explanation or set of explanations for some natural phenomenon, while an anecdote is a personal story or account.

Question 16

Which of the following statements is NOT falsifiable?

Accepted Answer

Statement D is a value judgement and cannot be scientifically tested or proven false. The other statements are falsifiable and can be tested through observation or experimentation.

Question 17

What criteria must be met for a hypothesis to be valid?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What criteria must be met for a...

Question 18

Which of the following lists the steps of the scientific process in the correct order?

Accepted Answer

The scientific process begins with observation, which leads to the formation of a hypothesis. The hypothesis should then be tested through the creation of a testable prediction, followed by experimentation. Finally, the results of the experiment are analyzed to support or refute the hypothesis.

Question 19

How would you respond to someone who says, "The hole in the ozone layer being caused by CFCs is just a theory"?

Accepted Answer

The answer of How would you respond to someone who...

Question 20

Which of the following questions can be solved with empirical evidence?

Accepted Answer

The question "What causes the changing of the seasons?" can be answered with empirical evidence through scientific observation and investigation. The other questions cannot be definitively answered with empirical evidence.

Quiz 2: Science Literacy and the Process of Science- Science and the Sky: Solving the Mystery of the Disappearing Ozone