Page 1 of 9 Chapter 1 Guide Process of Science Chapter 1 Guide Process of Science.pdf
Chapter 1 Guide: Process of Science
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Understand how the scientific method is used to test
hypotheses.
observation → hypothesis → controlled experiment → data
analysis → conclusion → peer review → replication, ensuring
results are reliable and evidence based.
Know the factors that influence the strength of the conclusions
of scientific studies.
Sample size – Larger sample sizes give more reliable results
and reduce the impact of random chance.
Repetition – When experiments are repeated by multiple
scientists and yield consistent results, confidence in the
conclusions grows.
Statistical significance – Strong conclusions require data that
show a real effect, not just random variation (typically >95%
confidence).
Control groups & placebos – Properly designed experiments
must compare experimental groups with control groups to rule
out placebo effects or other influences.
Peer review & publication – Experts for accuracy and rigor
have evaluated studies published in peer-reviewed journals.
Randomization and blinding – In clinical trials, randomly
assigning participants and using “blind” or “double-blind”
methods reduces bias.
Variables controlled – Controlling other variables (diet, age,
genetics, environment, etc.) ensures that only the factor of
interest is being tested.
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Relevance of the study population – The conclusions are
stronger if the participants studied are representative of the
population the results are applied to.
Type of evidence – Controlled experiments provide stronger
conclusions than anecdotal evidence or simple correlations, since
correlation does not equal causation.
Know the factors that influence whether the results of any
given study apply to a particular population of humans?
Ethnicity – Genetic background can affect health outcomes and
responses.
Sex – Biological differences between males and females may
influence results.
Age – Children, young adults, and older adults may respond
differently.
Height & Weight – Body size and composition affect
metabolism and health.
Genetic predisposition – Inherited traits may make some
groups affected.
Diet & Nutrition – Eating habits strongly influence study
outcomes.
Health status – Pre-existing conditions can alter results.
Exercise habits – Activity level can change how a treatment or
factor works.
Other medications – Drug interactions may affect
applicability.
Environment – Exposure to pollutants, climate, or living
conditions can matter.
Lifestyle factors – Smoking, alcohol, or substance use alter
health outcomes.
This study source was downloaded by 1827175 from cliffsnotes.com on 01-13-2026 18:28:32 GMT -06:00
Chapter 1 Guide Process of Science.pdf /2026-2027 Chapter 1 Guide Process of Science.pdf 100% correct
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Chapter 1 Guide: Process of Science
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Understand how the scientific method is used to test
hypotheses.
observation → hypothesis → controlled experiment → data
analysis → conclusion → peer review → replication, ensuring
results are reliable and evidence based.
Know the factors that influence the strength of the conclusions
of scientific studies.
Sample size – Larger sample sizes give more reliable results
and reduce the impact of random chance.
Repetition – When experiments are repeated by multiple
scientists and yield consistent results, confidence in the
conclusions grows.
Statistical significance – Strong conclusions require data that
show a real effect, not just random variation (typically >95%
confidence).
Control groups & placebos – Properly designed experiments
must compare experimental groups with control groups to rule
out placebo effects or other influences.
Peer review & publication – Experts for accuracy and rigor
have evaluated studies published in peer-reviewed journals.
Randomization and blinding – In clinical trials, randomly
assigning participants and using “blind” or “double-blind”
methods reduces bias.
Variables controlled – Controlling other variables (diet, age,
genetics, environment, etc.) ensures that only the factor of
interest is being tested.
This study source was downloaded by 1827175 from cliffsnotes.com on 01-13-2026 18:28:32 GMT -06:00
Chapter 1 Guide Process of Science.pdf /2026-2027 Chapter 1 Guide Process of Science.pdf 100% correct
https://www.cliffsnotes.com//study-notes/28745756
, Page 2 of 9 Chapter 1 Guide Process of Science Chapter 1 Guide Process of Science.pdf
Relevance of the study population – The conclusions are
stronger if the participants studied are representative of the
population the results are applied to.
Type of evidence – Controlled experiments provide stronger
conclusions than anecdotal evidence or simple correlations, since
correlation does not equal causation.
Know the factors that influence whether the results of any
given study apply to a particular population of humans?
Ethnicity – Genetic background can affect health outcomes and
responses.
Sex – Biological differences between males and females may
influence results.
Age – Children, young adults, and older adults may respond
differently.
Height & Weight – Body size and composition affect
metabolism and health.
Genetic predisposition – Inherited traits may make some
groups affected.
Diet & Nutrition – Eating habits strongly influence study
outcomes.
Health status – Pre-existing conditions can alter results.
Exercise habits – Activity level can change how a treatment or
factor works.
Other medications – Drug interactions may affect
applicability.
Environment – Exposure to pollutants, climate, or living
conditions can matter.
Lifestyle factors – Smoking, alcohol, or substance use alter
health outcomes.
This study source was downloaded by 1827175 from cliffsnotes.com on 01-13-2026 18:28:32 GMT -06:00
Chapter 1 Guide Process of Science.pdf /2026-2027 Chapter 1 Guide Process of Science.pdf 100% correct
https://www.cliffsnotes.com//study-notes/28745756
