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Quizzes > Science

Scientific Method Vocabulary Quiz

Quick, free quiz on experimental design terms. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Divyang PatelUpdated Aug 27, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art science icons test tubes microscope on sky blue background promoting scientific process vocabulary quiz

This scientific method vocabulary quiz helps you check and use core terms like hypothesis, variables, and control group so you can plan and read experiments with confidence. If you want to go deeper, try our experimental design quiz, or brush up on basics with a quick basic science quiz. Building vocabulary? Practice with a short definitions quiz.

What term describes a testable statement that can be supported or refuted through experimentation?
Observation
Law
Theory
Hypothesis
A hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction about what you expect to happen in your study. It can be supported or refuted through controlled experiments or observations. Hypotheses differ from theories, which are broader explanations supported by extensive evidence. .
What is the group in an experiment that does not receive the experimental treatment called?
Test group
Placebo group
Experimental group
Control group
The control group is the set of subjects that does not receive the independent variable manipulation, allowing researchers to compare outcomes against the experimental group. This group helps isolate the effect of the variable being tested. Having a control group strengthens the validity of experimental conclusions. .
Which variable is manipulated by the researcher to observe its effect?
Independent variable
Controlled variable
Dependent variable
Confounding variable
The independent variable is the factor that the researcher deliberately changes to test its impact on the dependent variable. Its manipulation helps establish cause-and-effect relationships. Identifying the independent variable is essential for experimental design. .
Which variable is measured or observed in response to changes in the independent variable?
Independent variable
Dependent variable
Controlled variable
Extraneous variable
The dependent variable is the outcome that is measured in an experiment to see if it changes when the independent variable is manipulated. It provides the data needed to evaluate the hypothesis. Proper measurement ensures valid conclusions. .
A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world based on a body of evidence is called what?
Theory
Hypothesis
Model
Law
In science, a theory is a comprehensive explanation of some aspect of nature supported by a vast body of evidence. Theories integrate facts, laws, inferences, and tested hypotheses. Unlike hypotheses, theories have been repeatedly confirmed through observation and experimentation. .
What is the act of gathering data or information using senses or instruments called?
Observation
Inference
Conclusion
Prediction
Observation involves collecting data through direct sensory experience or measurement devices. It forms the foundation of scientific inquiry by providing the factual basis for further analysis and hypothesis generation. Accurate observations are critical for reliable results. .
What type of data deals with numerical measurements?
Descriptive data
Qualitative data
Observational data
Quantitative data
Quantitative data refers to data that can be expressed numerically and subjected to statistical analysis. Examples include height, weight, and temperature. It contrasts with qualitative data, which describes characteristics or qualities. .
What type of data deals with descriptions or characteristics that cannot easily be measured numerically?
Discrete data
Quantitative data
Qualitative data
Continuous data
Qualitative data captures qualities or attributes, such as color, texture, or opinions. It is often collected through interviews, observations, and open-ended survey questions. This type of data provides depth and context that numbers alone cannot convey. .
What term describes a specific, measurable definition of a variable used in an experiment?
Operational definition
Dependent variable
Random variable
Control variable
An operational definition specifies how a concept or variable is measured or manipulated in a particular study. This clarity allows researchers to replicate the study and compare results. Without it, interpretations of data can be ambiguous. .
What is the process of repeating experiments to verify results?
Replication
Randomization
Validation
Calibration
Replication involves conducting the same experiment multiple times to confirm that results are consistent and not due to chance. It is a cornerstone of reliable science, ensuring that findings are robust. Journals often require replication for credibility. .
What is the specific forecast of an experimental outcome based on a hypothesis called?
Conclusion
Prediction
Assumption
Inference
A prediction is a statement about what you expect to happen during your experiment, derived from a hypothesis. It is more specific than a hypothesis and focuses on expected measurement outcomes. Predictions can be confirmed or refuted by data. .
Which phenomenon occurs when participants experience changes due to their expectations rather than the treatment?
Nocebo effect
Hawthorne effect
Observer effect
Placebo effect
The placebo effect occurs when participants experience real changes in health or behavior after receiving a treatment with no therapeutic value, simply because they believe it will help. It highlights the psychological component of healing and the need for control groups. .
What experimental design prevents both participants and experimenters from knowing who receives the treatment?
Double-blind
Placebo-controlled
Cross-over
Single-blind
In a double-blind study, neither the participants nor the researchers know which subjects are in the control or experimental groups. This design minimizes both experimenter and participant biases. It is standard in clinical trials. .
What do you call a variable that researchers keep constant to prevent it from influencing the results?
Dependent variable
Independent variable
Controlled variable
Confounding variable
A controlled variable, or constant, is any factor in an experiment that is held fixed so it does not affect the outcome. Controlling variables helps isolate the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable. This improves experimental validity. .
What is the process of assigning study participants to groups by chance called?
Randomization
Blocking
Matching
Stratification
Randomization uses chance to assign subjects to different groups, reducing selection bias and helping ensure groups are comparable. It is fundamental to the integrity of experimental design. Randomization supports valid statistical analysis. .
What term describes a logical interpretation of observations based on prior knowledge?
Conclusion
Inference
Hypothesis
Prediction
An inference is a reasoned conclusion drawn from observations and existing knowledge. It goes beyond mere description to interpret what the data might imply. Inferences are subject to further testing and validation. .
What term refers to the subset of a population used to draw conclusions about the whole?
Sample
Stratum
Subset
Cohort
A sample is a portion of the population selected for study, intended to represent the larger group. Proper sampling methods ensure that findings can be generalized. Biased samples undermine the validity of conclusions. .
What is the statistical measure that indicates the consistency of repeated measurements?
Accuracy
Precision
Validity
Reliability
Reliability refers to the extent to which a measurement yields consistent results over repeated trials. High reliability indicates stability and repeatability of data. It is distinct from validity, which addresses accuracy. .
What is the tendency of a measurement tool to produce results that are close to the true value called?
Reliability
Bias
Validity
Precision
Validity assesses whether a tool measures what it claims to measure and yields results close to the true value. High validity ensures the accuracy of conclusions drawn from data. Reliability and validity are both critical for sound research. .
In hypothesis testing, what is the probability of rejecting a true null hypothesis called?
Alpha level
p-value
Type I error
Type II error
A Type I error occurs when the null hypothesis is wrongly rejected, indicating a false positive. The probability of making this error is denoted by the significance level (alpha). Controlling alpha helps manage the risk of false discoveries. .
What term refers to the hypothesis that there is no significant difference or effect?
Statistical hypothesis
Directional hypothesis
Null hypothesis
Alternative hypothesis
The null hypothesis posits that any observed effect is due to chance rather than the experimental treatment. It serves as the default assumption in statistical tests. Researchers seek evidence to reject the null in favor of the alternative hypothesis. .
Which error occurs when you fail to reject a false null hypothesis?
p-value error
Type I error
Beta error
Type II error
A Type II error happens when the test fails to detect a real effect, leading to a false negative. Its probability is denoted by beta. Increasing sample size or effect size can reduce the likelihood of Type II errors. .
What is the term for peer evaluation of research before publication?
Post-publication review
Blind review
Peer review
Editorial review
Peer review involves experts in the field evaluating a manuscript for quality, validity, and significance prior to publication. It is a cornerstone of scholarly publishing and helps maintain scientific standards. Blind and double-blind reviews are common formats. .
What analysis technique partitions observed variance into components attributable to different sources of variation?
Regression analysis
Factor analysis
Chi-square test
ANOVA
Analysis of variance (ANOVA) compares means among groups by partitioning total variance into between-group and within-group components. It tests whether observed differences are statistically significant. ANOVA is fundamental in experimental design analysis. .
What term describes systematic error that skews results in a particular direction?
Random error
Bias
Variance
Noise
Bias is a systematic error that consistently pushes results away from the true value in one direction. It can arise from sampling, measurement, or analysis procedures. Identifying and minimizing bias is critical for valid research outcomes. .
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Study Outcomes

  1. Recognize Core Terms -

    Identify essential scientific process vocabulary such as hypothesis, control group, and variable to strengthen your science method vocabulary foundation.

  2. Differentiate Variable Types -

    Distinguish between independent, dependent, and controlled variables in experimental scenarios to master scientific method terms.

  3. Apply Terminology -

    Use key science method vocabulary accurately when describing research steps and interpreting results in real-world contexts.

  4. Evaluate Comprehension -

    Assess your quiz performance to pinpoint strengths and gaps in your understanding of scientific process vocabulary.

  5. Reinforce Understanding -

    Review detailed explanations for each question to deepen your knowledge of scientific method terms and concepts.

  6. Integrate Learning -

    Incorporate insights from this science vocabulary quiz into future experiments and academic discussions.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Hypothesis -

    Understanding a hypothesis enriches your scientific process vocabulary and sets up clear predictions for an experiment. It's framed as a null hypothesis (no change) versus an alternative hypothesis (expected effect). For example: "If light exposure doubles, then photosynthesis rate will increase by 25%."

  2. Independent & Dependent Variables -

    In science method vocabulary, the independent variable is the factor you manipulate, while the dependent variable is what you measure in response. Use the mnemonic "DRY MIX" (Dependent Responding Y-axis, Manipulated Independent X-axis) for quick recall. Clearly defining these scientific method terms prevents confusion during data collection.

  3. Control Group & Constants -

    A control group receives no experimental treatment, providing a baseline for comparison in your scientific process quiz experience. Constants are factors that must remain the same across all groups to isolate the effect of the independent variable. Maintaining proper controls and constants ensures valid, unbiased results.

  4. Scientific Method Steps -

    Familiarize yourself with the six key steps - Observation, Hypothesis, Experiment, Data Analysis, Interpretation, Conclusion - often remembered by the mnemonic "OHEDIC." These core science method vocabulary steps guide every well-designed investigation. Following each step systematically builds a strong foundation for credible research.

  5. Reproducibility & Replication -

    Reproducibility means others can achieve similar results using your methods, while replication refers to conducting the experiment again to confirm findings. Highlighting these scientific method terms strengthens the reliability of your conclusions. Peer review and transparent protocols are best practices for reinforcing trust in your data.

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