Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between a scientific theory and a hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

A hypothesis is a tentative answer that can be tested and falsified, while a theory is a comprehensive explanation supported by a large body of evidence.

Question 2

In a controlled experiment, which variable is manipulated by the researcher?

Accepted Answer

Independent variable

Question 3

A scientist wants to test whether a new fertilizer affects plant growth. She sets up two groups: one receives the fertilizer, the other does not. What is the null hypothesis for this experiment?

Accepted Answer

There will be no difference in plant growth between the two groups.

Question 4

Which of the following statements about statistical significance is correct?

Accepted Answer

Statistical significance is determined by calculating the probability that observed differences are due to chance, often using a p-value threshold such as $$p \leq 0.05.$$

Question 5

Which logic is used to develop a tentative answer or hypothesis based on observations?

Accepted Answer

Inductive logic

Question 6

A researcher uses mice to study the effects of a drug on human cells. This is an example of which concept?

Accepted Answer

Model system

Question 7

Which of the following is the correct order of taxonomic levels from most inclusive to least inclusive?

Accepted Answer

Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species

Question 8

Which statement about binomial nomenclature is correct?

Accepted Answer

It uses two terms: the first indicates the genus, the second indicates the species.

Question 9

If a scientist observes that all living organisms share similar genetic codes and amino acids, what does this suggest about the origin of life?

Accepted Answer

All life descended from a common ancestor.

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of life?

Accepted Answer

Life is static and unchanging.

Question 11

A scientist predicts that two groups of bacteria will respond differently to an antibiotic. Which type of experiment is she planning?

Accepted Answer

Comparative experiment

Question 12

Which of the following is an example of a law/principle in science?

Accepted Answer

Law of Thermodynamics

Question 13

In a controlled experiment, what is the purpose of the control group?

Accepted Answer

To provide a baseline for comparison with the experimental group

Question 14

Which domain includes organisms with eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Eukarya

Question 15

A scientist collects data on plant height after applying different amounts of water. Which variable is the dependent variable?

Accepted Answer

Plant height

Question 16

Which of the following best describes deductive logic in scientific investigation?

Accepted Answer

Using general principles to predict specific results that must be true if the hypothesis is correct.

Question 17

Which of the following is a requirement for a hypothesis to be considered scientific?

Accepted Answer

It must be falsifiable and testable.

Question 18

If the p-value calculated from an experiment is $$p = 0.03$$, what does this indicate about the results?

Accepted Answer

There is a statistically significant difference between groups at the commonly accepted threshold.

Question 19

Which of the following is NOT a consideration in statistical testing?

Accepted Answer

Personal opinion of the researcher

Question 20

Members of the same species are defined by which of the following criteria?

Accepted Answer

They can mate and produce viable offspring with each other.

Foundations of Scientific Investigation and Life: General Biology Study Notes

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