what is the most important reason to formulate a hypothesis before conducting an experiment

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Science Test

1. Why is it essential to formulate a hypothesis before conducting an experiment?

A. It will increase the investigator's reputation and prestige if their hypothesis is proven correct.
B. The hypothesis helps guide the investigation by suggesting what the investigator should be looking for.
C. Formulating a hypothesis shows potential sources of funding that the investigator has given some thought to the experiment.
D. The hypothesis directs which results to keep and publish; results that do not match the hypothesis should be discarded.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Formulating a hypothesis before conducting an experiment is crucial because it helps guide the investigation by suggesting what the investigator should be looking for. A hypothesis serves as a prediction or an educated guess about what might happen in the experiment, providing a clear direction for the research process. It allows the investigator to focus on specific variables and outcomes, making the experiment more organized and effective. Choice A is incorrect because the primary purpose of a hypothesis is not to boost an investigator's reputation but to guide the research. Choice C is incorrect as formulating a hypothesis is not primarily about impressing funders but about setting a clear direction for the study. Choice D is incorrect because the hypothesis is not meant to dictate which results to keep based on preconceived notions but to guide the investigation and allow for unbiased interpretation of results.

2. What is the main difference between a nuclear reactor and a nuclear bomb?

A. Reactors use enriched uranium, while bombs use natural uranium.
B. Reactors have controlled chain reactions, while bombs have uncontrolled chain reactions.
C. Reactors generate electricity, while bombs cause explosions.
D. Reactors use moderators, while bombs don't.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main difference between a nuclear reactor and a nuclear bomb is that reactors have controlled chain reactions, while bombs have uncontrolled chain reactions. Nuclear reactors are designed to sustain a controlled nuclear reaction to generate electricity. In contrast, nuclear bombs are designed to release a massive amount of energy in an uncontrolled chain reaction, resulting in an explosion. Choice A is incorrect because both reactors and bombs can use enriched uranium. Choice C is incorrect as nuclear reactors also generate electricity, not just bombs. Choice D is incorrect because both reactors and bombs may or may not use moderators, but the key distinction lies in the control of the chain reaction.

3. Lymph nodes, found along lymphatic vessels, are important for:

A. Storing blood
B. Producing antibodies
C. Filtering lymph and trapping harmful substances
D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Lymph nodes are essential for filtering lymph and trapping harmful substances. They are a vital part of the immune system as they remove pathogens and harmful substances from the lymph before it returns to the bloodstream. Lymph nodes do not store blood or produce antibodies, making choice C the correct answer. Choice A is incorrect because lymph nodes do not store blood; they primarily filter lymph. Choice B is incorrect as lymph nodes do not produce antibodies; that function is mainly carried out by specialized cells within the immune system. Choice D is incorrect as lymph nodes do not perform all the functions listed, making it an incorrect answer.

4. Water is considered a universal solvent due to its ____.

A. Cohesion
B. Adhesion
C. Molarity
D. Dilution

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Adhesion. Water's polarity allows it to dissolve many substances due to its ability to adhere to and interact with other molecules, making it an effective solvent. Cohesion refers to water molecules sticking together, molarity is a measure of concentration, and dilution refers to the process of reducing the concentration of a solute in a solution, none of which directly relate to water's role as a universal solvent.

5. What happens to the frequency of a wave if its wavelength decreases while the speed remains constant?

A. Frequency decreases
B. Frequency increases
C. Frequency remains constant
D. Frequency becomes zero

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Frequency increases. Frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional in a wave with a constant speed. When the wavelength decreases while the speed remains constant, the frequency must increase to maintain the constant speed of the wave. This relationship is governed by the equation: speed = frequency x wavelength. Choice A is incorrect as frequency increases when wavelength decreases. Choice C is incorrect as the frequency changes in this scenario. Choice D is incorrect as the frequency does not become zero but increases when the wavelength decreases.