What does the word falsifiable mean? Give an example of an idea that is not falsifiable. Give an example of an idea that is falsifiable.

The scientific method is a systematic way of exploring and understanding phenomena in the natural world. It involves several steps: formulating a question or problem, generating a hypothesis, conducting experiments, observing and collecting data, and drawing conclusions.
The scientific method prioritizes objectivity and repeatability. This means that anyone can follow the steps to test a hypothesis and should arrive at similar results. This process helps ensure that scientific findings are reliable and accurate.
Important characteristics of the scientific method include:

• Observation: Gathering data about phenomena using the senses or scientific tools.
• Hypothesis: Creating an educated guess or a testable prediction about the phenomena.
• Experimentation: Testing the hypothesis through controlled experiments or observations.
• Analysis: Interpreting data to understand the results of the experiment.
• Conclusion: Drawing conclusions based on the data—confirming or refuting the hypothesis.

By following these steps, scientists can develop a greater understanding of the world and ensure their findings are scientifically valid.

Hypothesis testing is a crucial part of the scientific method. It involves formulating and testing hypotheses to determine the accuracy of a scientific statement. A hypothesis is a testable prediction about the relationship between variables or about a phenomenon.
There are several key elements to successful hypothesis testing:

• Null Hypothesis (H0): This is a statement that there is no effect or no relationship between variables. It serves as a default position to be tested against.
• Alternative Hypothesis (H1): This is a statement that there is an effect or a relationship between variables. It is contrasted with the null hypothesis.
• Experiments and Observations: Conducting experiments or making observations to collect data and test the validity of the hypotheses.
• Data Analysis: Using statistical tools to analyze the data and determine whether there is enough evidence to reject the null hypothesis.

Hypothesis testing allows scientists to make informed conclusions about their hypotheses. If the data do not support the null hypothesis, it may be rejected in favor of the alternative hypothesis. Conversely, if the data do support the null hypothesis, it is not rejected, and the alternative hypothesis remains unproven.
This process helps in refining knowledge and ensuring that scientific conclusions are based on empirical evidence.

Observable phenomena are events or occurrences that can be detected and measured using the human senses or scientific instruments. They are critical in scientific research because they provide evidence that can be objectively examined.
In order for a phenomenon to be considered observable, it must meet the following criteria:

• Detectability: It can be detected using the senses (sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing) or with scientific instruments (microscopes, telescopes, sensors, etc.).
• Measurability: It can be measured or quantified, providing specific data that can be analyzed.
• Repeatability: It can be observed by different people under the same conditions, ensuring that findings are reliable and consistent.

Examples of observable phenomena include the boiling point of water, the phases of the moon, and biological processes such as photosynthesis.
Observing and measuring phenomena is foundational to developing scientific knowledge. Without observable phenomena, it would be difficult, if not impossible, to test hypotheses, validate theories, or establish scientific facts.