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  • Defining Scientific Questions: Testability, Specificity & Measurability
    A scientific question is a question that can be answered through empirical investigation, meaning it can be tested and potentially proven or disproven through observation, measurement, and experimentation.

    Here are some characteristics of a scientific question:

    1. Testable: The question must be able to be tested through an experiment or observation.

    2. Specific: The question should be focused and clear, not broad or vague.

    3. Measurable: The answer to the question should be able to be measured or observed in a quantifiable way.

    4. Falsifiable: The question should be able to be proven wrong. This means it can be tested in a way that could potentially disprove the hypothesis.

    5. Based on prior knowledge: The question should be based on existing knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.

    Examples of scientific questions:

    * Does fertilizer increase plant growth? (Testable, specific, measurable, falsifiable, based on prior knowledge about plants and nutrients)

    * How does temperature affect the rate of enzyme activity? (Testable, specific, measurable, falsifiable, based on prior knowledge about enzymes and their function)

    * What is the effect of caffeine on human reaction time? (Testable, specific, measurable, falsifiable, based on prior knowledge about caffeine and its effects)

    Examples of questions that are NOT scientific:

    * Is there life after death? (Not testable, not falsifiable)

    * What is the meaning of life? (Not testable, not measurable)

    * Is this painting beautiful? (Subjective, not measurable)

    Remember, a scientific question should be framed in a way that allows for a systematic and objective investigation. It should be possible to gather data and evidence to support or refute the answer.

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