Chapter 1, Section 1.3 Review
Questions
Question 1
• Question: What role do hypotheses play in
scientific inquiry?
• Answer: A hypothesis provides a testable
explanation for an observation.
Question 2
• Question: What is the difference between an
independent variable and a dependent
variable?
• Answer: An independent variable is
manipulated, a dependent variable shows the
effect of that manipulation (it is dependent on
the value of the independent variable).
Question 3
• Question: How is the meaning of theory in
science different from the everyday use of the
term?
• Answer: A scientific theory is a widely
accepted explanation that is supported by
evidence. In everyday language a theory
means a guess.
Question 4
• Question: How are hypotheses and theories
related?
• Answer: Hypotheses and theories are both
proposed explanations for a scientific question.
Observations and data collected in testing
hypotheses contribute to the broader question
that is addressed by a theory. A theory, in turn,
provides the framework for new hypotheses.
Question 5
• Question: Give examples of different ways in
which observations are used in scientific
inquiry?
• Answer: Scientific questions are developed
from initial observations. Observations are
also made to test hypotheses.
Question 6
• Question: Why is the statement “All life is made
of cells” an example of a theory? Explain
• Answer: The idea that all life is made of cells
changed the way scientists thought about what
defines an organism. Not only did it encompass
all accumulated evidence, but it also provided a
framework for new investigations.