1 Scientific Questions and the Scientific Method Free Online FlashCards

What makes a scientific question testable?

A testable question is specific enough to be answered using observations or measurements.

Why is “Why are plants interesting?” hard to investigate?

It is too broad to investigate directly; it does not specify what to observe or measure.

What does the bean-seedling question specify?

It identifies the factor being compared—daily light hours—and the evidence to collect: seedling height after 14 days.

What qualities make a scientific question strong?

It should be feasible to investigate and should not assume its answer.

What is a hypothesis?

A hypothesis is a proposed explanation or answer that can be evaluated using evidence.

What should a scientific hypothesis be based on?

It should draw on observations or existing knowledge while remaining open to testing and revision.

What is a prediction in an investigation?

A prediction states an expected observation if the hypothesis is correct.

How are a hypothesis and prediction related?

The hypothesis proposes an explanation; the prediction describes an expected observation if that explanation is supported.

How should scientists choose an investigation method?

The method should fit the question. Some questions call for experiments; others are better addressed through observations, comparisons, or existing data.

Does every scientific investigation follow a fixed sequence?

No. The scientific method is flexible, and its practices do not always occur in the same order.

What should investigators do when gathering evidence?

Investigators should record evidence carefully so they can compare it with the prediction and explain their reasoning.

What does it mean to interpret and communicate findings?

They compare evidence with the prediction, explain their reasoning, and share their methods and findings.