Science Reasoning Flashcards

Which of the following is an example of qualitative data?

Answer: Describing the color of a chemical reaction

Qualitative data describes non-numerical characteristics such as color, texture, or smell.

A researcher increases sample size from 10 to 1,000 participants. This change most likely:

Answer: Increases the reliability and validity of the results

Larger sample sizes reduce the effect of random variation and make results more representative and reliable.

In a data table, the column labeled 'Dependent Variable' should contain:

Answer: The measured outcome values from the experiment

The dependent variable is the outcome being measured in response to changes in the independent variable.

An experiment produces results that contradict a widely accepted scientific model. What should scientists do?

Answer: Investigate further through additional experiments before revising the model

Science requires multiple lines of evidence before revising established models; a single contradictory result warrants further investigation.

A line graph shows a variable that fluctuates without any clear upward or downward trend over time. This pattern is best described as:

Answer: No significant trend

Fluctuation without a consistent direction indicates no significant trend between the variable and time.

Which of the following best illustrates the concept of a scientific model?

Answer: A diagram of atomic structure used to explain chemical bonding

Scientific models are representations or analogies that help explain or predict natural phenomena, such as atomic diagrams.