Conceptual Physics Chapter 1

Choose the best way to test a scientific hypothesis...

Best way to test a scientific hypothesis is to see if it can be proven wrong.

What is a theory in science?

Large body of information that explains something about the natural world; a framework of understanding that results from rigorous testing.

Why is Physics considered the Basic Science?

Physics is the basis of all sciences. It is the study of motion, forces, energy, matter, heat, sound, light, and the structure of atoms.

In science, a hypothesis is an educated guess about the answer to a problem, or an attempted explanation to a puzzle. (T/F)

TRUE

The synthesis of a large collection of information that encompasses well-tested and verified hypotheses about certain aspects of the natural world is known as a scientific theory. (T/F)

TRUE

How does the Sun's diameter compare with the distance between Earth and Sun?

The sun's diameter is 1/110th it's distance from the Earth. In other words, if you took the diameter of the sun and multiplied it by 110, you would have the distance between the Earth and Sun.

What is the difference between a theory and a hypothesis?

Theory is a body of information with tested hypothesis. Hypothesis is an educated guess.

What is a hypothesis in science?

Educated guess based on reasonable explanation of observations. A possible explanation to a puzzle or fact that is to undergo testing.

A scientific fact is something that is absolute and unchanging. T/F

FALSE. Scientific facts are always expanding and evolving.

A hypothesis is scientific if there exists some test for proving it right. (T/F)

FALSE. Scientific hypothesis has to be proven wrong.

Why did Aristarchus choose the time of a half Moon to make his measurements for calculating the Earth-Sun distance?

He chose to make his measurements during a half moon because he knew that it would form a 90 degree angle. Then he could determine the distance between the earth and sun using the rules of trigonometry.

What are the major components of the scientific method?

Major components of scientific method: 1. Recognize a question or puzzle 2. Guess -- Hypothesis -- make an educated guess that might resolve puzzle 3. Predict consequences of hypothesis 4. Experiments to see if predictions are correct 5. Formulate simplest general rule; organize into 3 main category -- hypothesis, predicted effects, experimental findings

What is the preferred measurement system in science?

Metric Units

What is the difference between Science and technology?

Science is collecting information and organizing knowledge. Science aims to expand our understanding of the natural world. Technology is applied science and used by scientists for practical purposes. Provides a tool to get more detailed information.

What is science?

Science is the study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world. It is collecting information and gathering knowledge about the world and organizing and condensing it into testable laws and theories.

What is a scientific fact?

Scientific fact is a statement about the world that competent observers who have made a series of observations agree on.