Science Investigation Flashcards

A scientist observes that plants near a window grow taller than plants in a dark corner. What is the best next step?

Answer: Form a hypothesis and design a controlled experiment

An observation leads to a hypothesis, which must then be tested through a controlled experiment.

In an experiment testing how fertilizer affects plant height, what is the dependent variable?

Answer: Height of the plant

The dependent variable is what is measured — plant height — which depends on the fertilizer amount.

A student creates a model of the water cycle. What is the main limitation of using a model in science?

Answer: Models may not include every detail of the real system

Models simplify reality and may leave out some details, which is their key limitation.

Which safety rule is most important when heating a substance in a test tube?

Answer: Point the opening away from people

Pointing the test tube away from people prevents injury if the substance suddenly boils or splatters.

A student hypothesizes that adding salt to water will raise its boiling point. After testing, the data does not support the hypothesis. What should the student conclude?

Answer: The hypothesis was not supported and should be revised

When data does not support a hypothesis, scientists revise or reject the hypothesis based on evidence.

What does a control group provide in a science experiment?

Answer: A baseline for comparison that does not receive the treatment

A control group is the standard for comparison — it does not receive the experimental treatment.

Why is it important to use standard units (like meters and grams) when recording scientific data?

Answer: They allow scientists around the world to compare results

Standard units allow scientists worldwide to understand, compare, and replicate each other's measurements.