,WGU C165 OA Final Exam – Integrated Physical
Sciences – Q&A (2026) | WGU
1. The scientific method begins with which of the following steps?
A) Forming a hypothesis
B) Making an observation
C) Analyzing data
D) Drawing a conclusion
Correct Answer: B) Making an observation
Rationale: Scientific inquiry starts with observing a phenomenon, which leads to
a question. A hypothesis is then proposed to explain the observation, followed
by experimentation and analysis. This sequence ensures a systematic approach.
2. A hypothesis that has been repeatedly tested and supported by a large body
of evidence becomes a:
A) Law
B) Theory
C) Prediction
D) Variable
Correct Answer: B) Theory
Rationale: In science, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some
aspect of the natural world, based on a body of facts that have been repeatedly
,confirmed through observation and experiment. A law describes what happens,
often mathematically.
3. In a controlled experiment, the variable that the scientist changes or
manipulates is the:
A) Independent variable
B) Dependent variable
C) Controlled variable
D) Constant
Correct Answer: A) Independent variable
Rationale: The independent variable is the factor that is deliberately altered to
test its effect. The dependent variable is measured in response. Controlled
variables are kept constant to ensure a fair test.
4. A scientist creates a diagram to show how water moves through the water
cycle. This diagram is an example of a:
A) Physical model
B) Mathematical model
C) Conceptual model
D) Computer simulation
Correct Answer: C) Conceptual model
, Rationale: Conceptual models use diagrams, flowcharts, or written descriptions
to explain systems or processes. A physical model is a tangible representation; a
mathematical model uses equations.
5. Global Positioning System (GPS) is used to directly monitor the:
A) Temperature of the ocean
B) Motion of the continents
C) Thickness of the atmosphere
D) Speed of wind currents
Correct Answer: B) Motion of the continents
Rationale: GPS satellites provide precise location data over time, allowing
scientists to measure the slow movement of tectonic plates. Other tools
measure temperature, atmospheric properties, and wind.
6. The rate at which an object's velocity changes over time is known as:
A) Speed
B) Inertia
C) Acceleration
D) Momentum
Correct Answer: C) Acceleration
Sciences – Q&A (2026) | WGU
1. The scientific method begins with which of the following steps?
A) Forming a hypothesis
B) Making an observation
C) Analyzing data
D) Drawing a conclusion
Correct Answer: B) Making an observation
Rationale: Scientific inquiry starts with observing a phenomenon, which leads to
a question. A hypothesis is then proposed to explain the observation, followed
by experimentation and analysis. This sequence ensures a systematic approach.
2. A hypothesis that has been repeatedly tested and supported by a large body
of evidence becomes a:
A) Law
B) Theory
C) Prediction
D) Variable
Correct Answer: B) Theory
Rationale: In science, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some
aspect of the natural world, based on a body of facts that have been repeatedly
,confirmed through observation and experiment. A law describes what happens,
often mathematically.
3. In a controlled experiment, the variable that the scientist changes or
manipulates is the:
A) Independent variable
B) Dependent variable
C) Controlled variable
D) Constant
Correct Answer: A) Independent variable
Rationale: The independent variable is the factor that is deliberately altered to
test its effect. The dependent variable is measured in response. Controlled
variables are kept constant to ensure a fair test.
4. A scientist creates a diagram to show how water moves through the water
cycle. This diagram is an example of a:
A) Physical model
B) Mathematical model
C) Conceptual model
D) Computer simulation
Correct Answer: C) Conceptual model
, Rationale: Conceptual models use diagrams, flowcharts, or written descriptions
to explain systems or processes. A physical model is a tangible representation; a
mathematical model uses equations.
5. Global Positioning System (GPS) is used to directly monitor the:
A) Temperature of the ocean
B) Motion of the continents
C) Thickness of the atmosphere
D) Speed of wind currents
Correct Answer: B) Motion of the continents
Rationale: GPS satellites provide precise location data over time, allowing
scientists to measure the slow movement of tectonic plates. Other tools
measure temperature, atmospheric properties, and wind.
6. The rate at which an object's velocity changes over time is known as:
A) Speed
B) Inertia
C) Acceleration
D) Momentum
Correct Answer: C) Acceleration
