Study

The scientific investigation and technology

  •   0%
  •  0     0     0

      Back   Restart
  • What is meant by a scientific investigation?
    A systematic process used to test hypotheses, collect data, and draw evidence-based conclusions.
  • What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data?
    Qualitative data is descriptive, while quantitative data is numerical and measurable.
  • Why is it important to assess the limitations of technology used in an investigation?
    To ensure conclusions are not overstated and sources of error are acknowledged.
  • What is the purpose of a hypothesis in an investigation?
    To make a testable and predictive statement that can be supported or rejected by evidence.
  • Identify one limitation of relying heavily on technology in investigations.
    Equipment failure, cost, or over-reliance on automated results.
  • Give an example of how space technology has improved scientific investigations.
    Satellites and telescopes allow data collection beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
  • How can technology improve the reliability of data?
    By allowing repeated measurements under consistent conditions.
  • Describe one way technology has increased the scale of scientific investigations.
    Large datasets can be collected and shared globally, allowing collaboration and long-term studies.
  • Evaluate the role of technology in ensuring scientific investigations are repeatable.
    Technology standardises procedures and measurements, making investigations easier to replicate.
  • Identify the independent variable in an investigation.
    The variable that is deliberately changed by the researcher.
  • Give one example of technology used to collect data in modern science.
    Data loggers, sensors, microscopes, or spectrometers.
  • How has computer modelling changed scientific investigations?
    It allows scientists to simulate systems, predict outcomes, and test scenarios that may be impractical or unsafe.
  • Assess the impact of technology on the speed of scientific discovery.
    Technology accelerates data collection and analysis, allowing faster discoveries.
  • Explain how technology can affect the ethical considerations of scientific investigations.
    It may enable invasive data collection or raise concerns about privacy, safety, or environmental impact.
  • How does technology improve the accuracy of scientific investigations?
    It allows more precise measurements, reduces human error, and enables data collection at smaller scales.
  • How can technology introduce bias into scientific investigations?
    Through faulty sensors, incorrect software algorithms, or selective data processing.
  • Why must controlled variables be kept constant?
    To ensure that any change in the dependent variable is due only to the independent variable.
  • Which organisation uses advanced technology to conduct space-based scientific investigations?
    NASA
  • Why is calibration important when using scientific instruments?
    To ensure measurements are accurate and comparable to standard values.
  • Explain how advances in technology can change scientific understanding.
    New technologies allow observations that were previously impossible, leading to new evidence and theories.
  • Why are digital data loggers preferred over manual measurements in many investigations?
    They collect continuous data automatically and reduce human error.
  • What does validity mean in a scientific investigation?
    That the investigation tests what it claims to test.
  • Explain why improved technology does not always guarantee better scientific conclusions.
    Poor experimental design or biased interpretation can still lead to incorrect conclusions.
    • Your experience on this site will be improved by allowing cookies.