Question 1

Which of the following best describes a scientific hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

An explanation based on observations that leads to a testable prediction.

Question 2

A scientist observes that a plant in her lab is not growing. She hypothesizes that the soil lacks nitrogen. Which of the following is the best prediction based on her hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

If nitrogen is added to the soil, the plant will grow.

Question 3

Which of the following is a key requirement for a scientific experiment?

Accepted Answer

It must be repeatable under controlled conditions.

Question 4

In the desk lamp scenario, which step comes immediately after forming a hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

Testing a prediction derived from the hypothesis.

Question 5

Which of the following best illustrates inductive reasoning in scientific inquiry?

Accepted Answer

Deriving generalizations from a large number of specific observations.

Question 6

A researcher wants to test a new drug. She uses three groups: one receives the drug, one receives the drug delivery vehicle only, and one receives no treatment. What is the purpose of the vehicle control group?

Accepted Answer

To determine the effect of the drug delivery vehicle alone.

Question 7

Which of the following is an example of quantitative data?

Accepted Answer

The height of a plant measured in centimeters.

Question 8

Why is it important to use replicates in an experiment?

Accepted Answer

To increase the sample size and reduce the impact of random variation.

Question 9

Which of the following is a negative control in a drug experiment?

Accepted Answer

A group receiving no drug at all.

Question 10

A scientist collects data on the number of bacteria colonies growing on a petri dish after applying different antibiotics. She organizes the data into a graph. What type of data is she presenting?

Accepted Answer

Quantitative data.

Question 11

Which of the following statements about hypotheses is correct?

Accepted Answer

A hypothesis can be supported by evidence but never absolutely proven.

Question 12

In an experiment, the independent variable is:

Accepted Answer

The variable that is changed or manipulated by the researcher.

Question 13

Which of the following is a real-world example of a positive control?

Accepted Answer

A group receiving a standard treatment known to produce an effect.

Question 14

A scientist uses a model organism in her experiment. What is the main advantage of using a model organism?

Accepted Answer

Model organisms are commonly used, well understood, and allow for research from different angles.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes deductive reasoning?

Accepted Answer

Using general premises to make specific predictions.

Question 16

A dose-response curve is used in biology to:

Accepted Answer

Show the relationship between the amount of a drug and its effect.

Question 17

Why is peer review important in scientific research?

Accepted Answer

It helps validate the quality and reliability of scientific findings.

Question 18

Which ethical issue is highlighted by the story of Henrietta Lacks?

Accepted Answer

The need for informed consent in biomedical research.

Question 19

A scientist wants to test the effect of a new fertilizer on plant growth. She sets up three groups: one with fertilizer, one with water only, and one with no treatment. What is the independent variable?

Accepted Answer

The type of treatment each group receives (fertilizer, water, or none).

Question 20

Which of the following equations represents the calculation of the mean (average) of a set of data points $$x_1$$, $$x_2$$, ..., x_n$$?

Accepted Answer

$$\frac{\sum_{i=1}^{n} x_i}{n}$$

Scientific Inquiry and Experimental Design in Biology

Guida di studio - Domande di pratica

Study guide - Flashcard