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SCIENTIFIC METHODS
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Scientific method outlines a series of steps for answering
questions.
The process of science blends two main types of exploration:
1. Discovery Science
2. Hypothetico-deductive science
Discovery Science
Lead to important conclusions based on a type of logic called
induction or inductive reasoning.
Through induction, generalizations are derived based on
observations.
Example: The sun rises in the east
All organisms are made of cells
Hypothetico-deductive Methods
Hypothetic = hypothesis : a tentative answer to a well-framed
question – an explanation on trial
A scientific hypothesis makes predictions that can be tested by
recording additional observations or by designing experiments
Deductive reasoning: refers to the use of deductive logic to test a
hypothesis
Induction : reasoning from a set of specific observations to reach
a general conclusion
Deduction : reasoning from a set of general premises to reach a
specific result. Deductive testing takes the form of “If….then”
logic.
Result :
Interpretation : Maggots would not develop in the net-covered vessels, even
though the meat had been fully exposed to the air
Conclusion : Maggots appeared only from the deposited eggs of flies
HYPOTHESIS WAS ACCEPTED
3.2 Dependent / Independent variable
Result : Red dye #2 did indeed increase the incidence of cancer in rats
Therefore, will increase cancer in human as well because rats ≈ human
Ideally, the experimental and control groups differ only in
the one factor the experiment is designed to test – in our
example the red dye
Results are often variable and need statistical analysis
before conclusion can be made
The conclusion may lead to the hypothesis being
accepted, modified or rejected.
Even if results support a hypothesis, it is accepted only
tentatively because it can never be proved completely
However, it only needs a single contrary observation to
refute a hypothesis (prove it wrong or incomplete)
3.4 Units of measurement, S.I. units
Length:
km, m, cm, mm, μm, nm
Mass:
kg, g, mg, μg
Volume:
L, mL, μL, cm3, mm3
Temperature:
oC, oF