Chapter 2 Tools of Environmental Science
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testable explanation for an observation
hypothesis
information gathered during an experiment
data
information gathered by using sight, hearing, smell, and touch
observation
principles or standards we consider important
value
verbal or graphical explanation for how a system works or is organized
conceptual model
collection and classification of data in the form of numbers
statistics
association used to study a subject when using an experiment is impossible or unethical
correlation
procedure for testing a hypothesis under controlled conditions
experiment
chance of something happening
probability
logical statement about what will happen if a hypothesis is correct
prediction
What essential characteristic does a good experiment have? a. control group is given the experimental treatment. b. A single variable is tested. c. A control is used. d. both (b) and (c)
d. both (b) and (c) A single variable is tested and a control is used.
Why are mathematical models important? a. They are especially useful in situations with many variables. b. They can be used to create useful digital images. c. They can represent how a system or process works. d. all of the above
a. They are especially useful in situations with many variables.
The average mass of a wolf in a pack of wolves is an example of a. mean. b. distribution. c. sample size. d. statistical population
a. mean
A model of a dinosaur is an example of a _____ model a. graphical b. mathematical c. conceptual d. physical
d. physical
The chance that an earthquake will occur in your town during the next year is an example of a. correlation. b. skepticism. c. risk. d. distribution.
c. risk
Before you can make a decision using a decision-making model, what step must you take? a. Explore the consequences of each option. b. Consider which values apply to the issue. c. Gather information. d. all of the above
d. all of the above Gather information, consider which values apply to the issue, and explore the consequences of each option.
If you consider what will protect our natural resources when making an environmental decision, you are examining a(n)________ value. a. ethical/moral b. aesthetic c. scientific d. environmental
d. environmental
Your county is considering buying land to form a nature preserve. On this land, an endangered species of mammal is known to breed. Which of the following is a possible positive long-term consequence of this decision? a. The population of the endangered species increases. b. Habitat destruction is immediately slowed. c. Environmental controls are made less strict outside the preserve area. d. Habitats outside the preserve area are damaged by over development.
a. The population of the endangered species increases
In a scientific investigation, it is important that the number of objects or events being sampled be a. a guess of how likely an unwanted outcome will occur. b. large enough to give an accurate estimate for the whole population. c. equal to the mean number of objects or events not sampled. d. equal to the total statistical population.
b. large enough to give an accurate estimate for the whole population.
A good hypothesis is more than a guess because it a. is based on intuition rather than observation. b. states what is likely to happen. c. makes logical sense d. Both (b) and (c)
c. makes logical sense
A method consisting of a series of steps that scientists worldwide use to identify and answer questions.
Experimental Method
The factor being tested in an experiment.
variable
The group that receives the experimental treatment in an experiment.
experimental group
The group that does not receive the experiment treatment in an experiment.
control group