Question

1. what is the correct order of the science investigation process?

• a) conclusion → analysis → data collection → question
• b) question → hypothesis → experiment → analysis → conclusion
• c) experiment → hypothesis → question → analysis
• d) data collection → question → hypothesis → experiment

1. which of the following best describes \probability\?

• a) the average of a data set
• b) the number of experiments done
• c) the chance of an event happening
• d) the final step in an investigation

1. if the results of five trials are: 5, 7, 6, 8, 4, what is the mean?

• a) 6
• b) 7
• c) 5
• d) 8

1. during an experiment, what is the purpose of repeating trials?

• a) to make the experiment shorter
• b) to increase accuracy and reliability
• c) to change the hypothesis
• d) to get only the highest result

Explanation:

Step1: Science investigation process

In a science investigation, one starts with a question. Then forms a hypothesis (prediction). Conducts an experiment. Analyzes the data from the experiment. Finally, draws a conclusion. So for question 1, option b is correct.

Step2: Definition of probability

Probability is defined as the chance of an event happening. The average of a data set is the mean (not probability). The number of experiments done is just a count. The final step in an investigation is the conclusion. So for question 2, option c is correct.

Step3: Calculate the mean

The formula for the mean $\bar{x}=\frac{\sum_{i = 1}^{n}x_{i}}{n}$. Here $n = 5$, $x_1=5,x_2 = 7,x_3=6,x_4=8,x_5 = 4$. Then $\sum_{i=1}^{5}x_{i}=5 + 7+6+8+4=30$. And $\bar{x}=\frac{30}{5}=6$. So for question 3, option a is correct.

Step4: Purpose of repeating trials

Repeating trials in an experiment helps to increase accuracy and reliability (by reducing the impact of random errors). It does not make the experiment shorter (more trials take more time). It is not to change the hypothesis (hypothesis is tested, not changed by repeating trials). And it is not to get only the highest result (we consider all data). So for question 4, option b is correct.

Answer:

1. B. Question → Hypothesis → Experiment → Analysis → Conclusion
2. C. The chance of an event happening
3. A. 6
4. B. To increase accuracy and reliability