Key Concept: Role of Curiosity in Science

b) It motivates asking questions and seeking understanding
[Solution Description] Curiosity drives individuals to ask questions and seek answers, which leads to discoveries and advancements. It encourages exploration and experimentation, allowing scientists to uncover new insights and understand the world better.

Key Concept: Introduction: Science as a Process

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that science is an ongoing process of discovery that requires curiosity and questioning. This is true because science continually evolves with new discoveries and insights. Curiosity and questioning drive the exploration and understanding of phenomena.
The reason suggests that once scientific facts are established, they do not require further questioning or exploration. This statement is false because scientific facts can be re-evaluated with new evidence or perspectives. Science encourages continuous inquiry even into established facts to enhance understanding.
Since the assertion is true but the reason is false, option c) is correct.

Key Concept: Interconnectedness of Scientific Fields

c) Discoveries in one can inspire advances in another
[Solution Description] Different fields of science, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences, often overlap and influence each other. Discoveries in one field can lead to questions and developments in another, showcasing the interconnected nature of scientific knowledge.

Key Concept: Curiosity and Responsibility, Exploration Process

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
Assertion states that science is not just about discovering new facts but also understanding how different scientific fields are interconnected. This is true because science as a process encourages exploring questions that connect various domains like physics, chemistry, biology, etc., leading to broader insights.
Reason claims that the scientific process is solely about discovering isolated facts with no regard for societal implications. This statement is false as science inherently connects discoveries to real-world applications and societal challenges, such as addressing environmental issues.
Therefore, the assertion is true, but the reason provided is incorrect.

Key Concept: Interconnectedness of Scientific Fields

c) By understanding their interaction with natural elements like air and water
[Solution Description]
The study of metals and non-metals allows us to classify materials based on their properties such as conductivity, reactivity, etc. These properties are crucial for understanding how materials interact with the environment and contribute to processes like pollution or resource depletion. For instance, metal corrosion can lead to environmental damage, while the recycling of non-metals helps conserve resources.

Key Concept: Interconnectedness of Scientific Ideas, Real-World Application

a) Filtration, sedimentation, chlorination
[Solution Description] Purification of drinking water involves multiple scientific disciplines working together. Chemistry plays a role through chemical reactions like chlorination, which disinfects water. Physics is involved in filtration systems that physically remove impurities through barriers. Biology understands biological contaminants and uses organisms in bio-sand filters. These processes demonstrate how different branches of science contribute to solving practical, real-world problems like ensuring safe drinking water.

Key Concept: Role of Experiments

b) They provide hands-on experience to explore concepts
[Solution Description]
Experiments play a crucial role in the study of science as they allow students to engage with topics actively and think critically. Through experimentation, students can confirm hypotheses, generate new questions, and gain insights into scientific principles that might not be apparent from theoretical study alone.

Key Concept: Curiosity, Exploration

a) The birds prefer morning sunlight for warmth.
[Solution Description] To find the answer, consider factors such as sunlight exposure, wind direction, and predator avoidance. Nests built on the eastern side might receive early morning sun which helps keep the nest warm. Additionally, it could protect against prevailing winds or predators more common from other directions.

Key Concept: Science as a way of questioning

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that science encourages curiosity and questioning, which aligns with the concept of science being a method for exploring and understanding the world. This statement is true because scientific inquiry often begins with asking questions.
The reason claims that the main goal of science is to collect facts. While fact collection is a part of science, it doesn’t encapsulate its primary goal. The essence of science is not just fact collection but also forming hypotheses, performing experiments, and developing theories to explain phenomena. Hence, the reason does not correctly explain the assertion.
Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is NOT the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Curiosity, Patterns in Nature

a) Classical music creates vibrations beneficial to cell growth.
[Solution Description] This phenomenon can be analyzed by considering sound wave frequencies and their effects on plant physiology. Classical music typically has smoother, harmonic waves that may influence plant cells positively compared to the irregular and loud sounds of rock music.

Key Concept: Science as a Process, Curiosity and Exploration

d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
[Solution Description]
The assertion that science is primarily about learning facts and memorizing them is incorrect. Science is not just a collection of facts; it is a process of exploration and questioning, aiming to understand the world through observation, experimentation, and critical thinking. On the other hand, the reason given is true and aligns with the syllabus, which emphasizes asking questions, exploring, and conducting experiments. The reason correctly describes the scientific method but doesn’t explain the assertion since the assertion itself is false. Therefore, the correct choice is that the Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.

Key Concept: Scientific Processes

c) To validate hypotheses through testable predictions
[Solution Description]
The primary objective of conducting experiments is to test hypotheses by manipulating variables and observing outcomes. This helps in validating or refuting predictions made based on existing theories or understanding, thus contributing to knowledge building through systematic investigation.

Key Concept: Heat Transfer and Material Changes in Natural Phenomena

b) Warm ocean currents conduct heat, raising the temperature of icebergs to their melting point.
[Solution Description]
The melting of icebergs primarily involves the transfer of heat energy from warmer seawater or air to the colder ice. This process is governed by the principles of heat transfer, specifically conduction, convection, and radiation. Conduction allows heat to move from the water into the ice, while convection currents in the water help distribute heat around the iceberg. Radiation from the sun also contributes to heating the ice surface, causing it to melt gradually. As a result, the thermal energy absorbed by the ice increases its temperature until it reaches the melting point, converting solid ice to liquid water.

Key Concept: Interconnected Science Fields

a) They provide molecular insights applicable to chemistry
[Solution Description]
Discoveries in biology, such as DNA analysis, often lead to advances in chemistry and physics by providing insights into molecular structures and reactions. These interdisciplinary connections foster new techniques and technologies, enhancing understanding across sciences.

Key Concept: Science as a Process, Exploration from Cells to Planets

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that the study of light is beneficial for understanding a range of subjects from the very small (like cells) to the very large (such as planets). This is true because light’s properties, such as its speed and behavior under different conditions, allow us to examine microscopic cellular structures using microscopes and observe astronomical bodies using telescopes.
The reason claims that light behaves only as a particle when interacting with matter. This statement is false because, according to quantum mechanics, light exhibits both wave-like and particle-like properties depending on the situation (wave-particle duality).
Thus, while Assertion is true, Reason is false because it incorrectly describes the nature of light.

Key Concept: Integrated Concepts of Scale and Motion in Celestial Bodies and Cells

a) Cellular processes are faster and operate on smaller scales compared to slower and larger-scale celestial motions.
[Solution Description]
The scale of cellular processes, such as cell division, occurs on a much smaller spatial and temporal scale than celestial motions. Cellular processes typically occur at microscopic levels and can happen within minutes or hours. In contrast, celestial motions involve vast distances and longer time scales. For example, Earth completes one rotation every 24 hours, a relatively slow process compared to cellular activities. These differences highlight how science must adapt different methodologies depending on the scale of investigation.

Key Concept: Science covers the very small to the very large

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
Assertion is stating that scientists study a vast range, from the smallest cells to the largest celestial bodies, which is correct. The Reason explains why such wide-ranging studies are important; however, while both statements are true, the Reason provided is not the direct explanation for why scientists cover this broad spectrum in their studies. The assertion addresses the scope of what scientists study, whereas the reason discusses the necessity of such diversity in knowledge without directly explaining the assertion’s claim about scientific study including both extremes. Therefore, even though both statements are true, the reason does not correctly explain the assertion.

Key Concept: Understanding Small to Large Concepts

a) Microscope
[Solution Description]
The microscope is the instrument designed specifically for viewing small objects that are not visible to the naked eye, like cells. Telescopes are used for distant objects in space, spectrometers analyze light properties, and oscilloscopes visualize electrical signals.

Key Concept: Interconnection of Scientific Ideas, Application in Real World

a) Generating lift efficiently
[Solution Description] Engineers often study nature to enhance technology. Bird wings provide insight into aerodynamics, such as lift, drag reduction, and the ability to change shape during flight. The primary focus would be on how bird wings generate lift efficiently while minimizing drag. This can help improve fuel efficiency and maneuverability in modern aircraft designs.

Key Concept: Pattern Observation, Environmental Understanding

a) Clayey soil
[Solution Description] For growing rice, maintaining consistent moisture is crucial. Clayey soil retains water well due to its fine particles, making it ideal for crops like rice that need a lot of water. On the other hand, sandy soil drains too quickly and loamy soil has moderate retention but does not hold as much water as clayey soil.

Key Concept: Scientific Inquiry

a) It allows making predictions
[Solution Description] Observing patterns in nature helps scientists form hypotheses about how certain phenomena occur. Recognizing patterns can indicate underlying principles or laws governing natural behavior. This forms the basis for further experimental investigation where these hypotheses can be tested, leading to scientific conclusions.

Key Concept: Interconnection of Scientific Ideas

d) In what ways do human activities impact weather patterns?
[Solution Description] The interconnectedness of scientific disciplines can be understood by exploring how ideas from one field inspire or relate to another. A question demonstrating this would draw concepts from multiple areas of science, such as physics, chemistry, and biology.

Key Concept: Science as a Process: Understanding Patterns in Nature

a) Why do leaves fall off trees in autumn?
[Solution Description] Observing patterns in nature involves recognizing regularities or trends. A suitable question would explore the reasons behind these recurring phenomena, helping us predict future events or understand underlying mechanisms.

Key Concept: Science as a Process: Curiosity and Questioning

a) What causes the sour taste in lemons?
[Solution Description] To understand why some fruits are sour, we should focus on identifying the substances responsible for this taste. The primary reason for the sourness in fruits is the presence of acids such as citric acid or malic acid. Therefore, a curiosity-driven question would be one that investigates these components.

Key Concept: Learning through activities, experiments, observation

b) Data collection and analysis
[Solution Description] The scientific process used here is making observations, performing experiments, and analyzing results to draw conclusions. When the students observe how water flows through different soil types, they are using empirical evidence to understand natural phenomena. This hands-on experience exemplifies learning science through activities and experimentation, as outlined in the syllabus.

Key Concept: Learning through activities, experiments, and observation

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
The assertion that “Experiments in science help us understand natural phenomena better” is true because experiments allow us to test hypotheses and observe outcomes directly, contributing to our understanding of the world around us. The reason “Observations are only needed when conducting theoretical research” is false. Observations are crucial in both experimental and theoretical research. They form the basis for developing theories as well as testing them in a practical setup. Therefore, while the assertion is true, the reason provided is incorrect because it misunderstands the role of observation in scientific inquiry.

Key Concept: Experimentation and observation

Correct Answer option (b) Repeat the experiment to verify results
[Solution Description] When conducting experiments, noticing unexpected results like cloudiness requires further investigation. Repeating the experiment under controlled conditions ensures consistency and helps identify any factors that led to the change.

Key Concept: Exploration, Pattern Recognition, Environmental Awareness

c) Fosters ecological awareness
[Solution Description] By recognizing patterns in animal behavior and correlating them with specific times of day, students engage in pattern recognition—a key aspect of scientific inquiry. This exploration encourages active learning and enhances their understanding of ecological relationships, highlighting the interconnectedness of human activities and natural events, as mentioned in the syllabus.

Key Concept: Learning through activities, experiments, and observation

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion states that performing experiments is essential for understanding scientific concepts. This is true because hands-on experimentation allows individuals to observe phenomena directly and apply theoretical knowledge practically, leading to a deeper comprehension of the concepts involved.
The Reason claims that experiments always provide immediate answers to scientific questions. This statement is false. While experiments are crucial in validating hypotheses or exploring new areas, they do not always yield immediate answers. Often, the outcomes of experiments lead to further questioning and exploration rather than providing instant conclusions.
Therefore, the correct response is that the Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.

Key Concept: Learning through activities and observation

b) Changes in the height of the plant
[Solution Description] Observing plant growth involves noting changes over time, such as variations in height, color, or leaf size. This helps in understanding the conditions necessary for growth.

Key Concept: Interconnectedness of scientific fields, properties of materials

a) Reflection of light
[Solution Description] Light consists of many colors, each with a distinct wavelength. When light hits an object, the surface of the object absorbs certain wavelengths and reflects others. The color of an object is determined by the specific wavelengths or colors of light that the object’s surface reflects. For instance, if an object appears blue, it is reflecting the blue wavelength of light while absorbing other colors. This phenomenon is known as selective reflection, and it’s fundamental to our perception of color. Hence, the property of light responsible for seeing objects in different colors is the reflection and absorption of various wavelengths.

Key Concept: Historical context of flight exploration, bird wings to modern aircraft

c) Birds change wing angles to control lift
[Solution Description] Early aviation pioneers observed how birds manipulate their wings to control lift and direction. One crucial observation was that birds can change the angle and curvature of their wings to manage airflow and generate lift efficiently. By altering these parameters, birds achieve stable flight and maneuverability. This understanding led inventors to design wings for early aircraft inspired by bird wings, incorporating similar adjustable features to control lift and stability. Thus, observing the changing angles and shapes of birds’ wings significantly influenced the design of initial flying machines.

Key Concept: The Process of Scientific Inquiry

c) Fields connect to address complex issues
[Solution Description] Different scientific fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences are interconnected because they all contribute to understanding complex problems and phenomena. For example, understanding climate change may require knowledge from earth sciences, physics for energy balance, chemistry for chemical reactions in the atmosphere, and biology for ecosystem impacts.

Key Concept: Exploration of Scientific Discoveries, Historical Context of Flight Exploration

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that simple observations and experiments are essential for scientific discoveries. This is true, as many scientific breakthroughs have originated from basic observations and experimental trials. The reason argues that the study of bird wings was pivotal in developing modern aircraft designs. This is also true; however, while the observation of bird wings did inspire early aviation designs, scientific discoveries across various disciplines contributed to the development of modern aircraft. Therefore, although both statements are true, the reason does not correctly explain the assertion because the assertion applies broadly to all scientific discoveries, not just those related to flight.

Key Concept: Introduction to the world of science, celestial movements

d) The Earth’s rotation causes day and night
[Solution Description] The Earth rotates around its axis, which is an imaginary line going through the North and South Poles. This rotation takes approximately 24 hours to complete one full turn. During this process, different parts of the Earth are exposed to sunlight while others are in darkness. When a region on the Earth’s surface turns towards the Sun, it experiences daylight as the Sun’s rays reach it directly. Conversely, when that same region turns away from the Sun, it falls into shadow, experiencing nighttime. Therefore, the cycle of day and night is directly caused by the Earth’s continuous rotation.

Key Concept: Understanding the role of curiosity in scientific exploration

a) Ask questions and perform experiments
[Solution Description] Curiosity inspires scientists to ask questions and seek answers through experiments and observations. It is the driving force behind scientific exploration, as it leads researchers to explore unknown areas, make discoveries, and expand human knowledge.

Key Concept: Symbolism, Scientific Exploration, Inspiration from Flight

c) Emphasizing adapting designs based on observed environmental interactions.
[Solution Description] When comparing the butterfly’s erratic yet purposeful flight with the smooth trajectory of a paper plane, an essential part of scientific exploration emerges: adapting to environmental conditions. Butterflies adjust their pathway responding to wind currents or obstacles, much like early aviators had to consider weather conditions and modify designs to achieve sustained flight.
Both examples emphasize adaptation and innovation—core components in the development of aviation technologies from observing birds and insects. Thus, the ability to adapt designs according to environmental observations is crucial. Science explores patterns in unpredictable behaviors (like a butterfly’s flight) to innovate stable systems (like a paper plane), paralleling how human aviation has evolved.

Key Concept: Curiosity, Imagination, Practical Experimentation and Innovation

c) Formulation and testing of hypotheses through iterative experimentation.
[Solution Description] Folding various types of paper planes and observing their flights allows students to engage in experimental observation and hypothesis testing, core tenets of scientific methodology. This approach cultivates skills in designing experiments, where altering variables like weight, fold angles, and throw force impacts results. By drawing parallels between these tests and butterfly navigation, students develop hypotheses regarding cause-and-effect relationships in natural flight mechanisms versus engineered models.
The activity fosters critical thinking and creativity, encouraging students to explore potential improvements and understand physical dynamics of flight, symbolically linking imagination with hands-on experimentation. Thus, it predominantly promotes the formulation and testing of hypotheses.

Key Concept: Role of Curiosity in Science

c) Encourages questioning
[Solution Description] Curiosity drives the scientific process by encouraging questioning and exploration beyond known facts. It allows scientists to expand their knowledge, think critically, and make discoveries. By fostering a curious mindset, learners become active participants in exploring and understanding the world around them.

Key Concept: Symbolism of a Butterfly in Science Exploration

c) It exemplifies unpredictable and explorative journeys
[Solution Description]
The flight path of a butterfly is symbolic in science exploration because it represents unpredictability, freedom, and curiosity. A butterfly’s flight is not linear or predictable; instead, it seems random and whimsical. This randomness symbolizes the unpredictable nature of scientific discovery where paths may vary, leading to unexpected findings. Just as explorers follow their curiosity without knowing exactly where it will lead, scientists ask questions and conduct experiments to uncover new knowledge, mirroring the free and spontaneous movement of a butterfly.

Key Concept: Imagination and exploration: symbolized through a butterfly and a paper plane

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that a paper plane symbolizes scientific exploration due to its reliance on aerodynamic principles, which is true. Paper planes indeed mimic some basic principles like lift and drag that are fundamental in aircraft design, thus making them a symbol of exploration in science.
The reason states that the flight path of a butterfly is random and does not follow scientific principles, which is false. While a butterfly’s flight may appear erratic, it is governed by biological and physical principles including biomechanics and fluid dynamics.
Therefore, the correct answer is: Assertion is true, but Reason is false.

Key Concept: Curiosity in Scientific Process

c) It fuels inquiry and the pursuit of new knowledge
[Solution Description]
Curiosity is foundational to the scientific process because it drives questioning and exploration, much like how a butterfly flutters around or a paper plane soars freely, exploring different paths. Curiosity leads individuals to seek answers, investigate unknown territories, and push boundaries of current knowledge. Without curiosity, scientific progress would stagnate as there would be no motivation to explore beyond existing understanding. The butterfly and paper plane symbolize this boundless curiosity and the openness required for genuine scientific inquiry.

Key Concept: Role of Observation in Science

b) By observing bird wings
[Solution Description] Early inventors started exploring aviation by making observations of natural flyers, such as birds, and performing experiments to understand how they achieve flight. These observations helped form the foundational concepts that would be applied in creating flying machines.

Key Concept: The Flight of Curiosity: Paper planes inspiring real scientific developments in aviation

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description] The assertion is correct as the design of modern aircraft has indeed been inspired by basic concepts such as those demonstrated through paper planes, which provide a fundamental understanding of aerodynamics. However, the reason given is incorrect because while paper planes can help in understanding basic flight principles, they do not exactly replicate the complex flight characteristics of larger aircraft due to differences in scale and materials.

Key Concept: Physics of Flight, Inspiration from Nature

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
In this assertion-reason question, we need to evaluate both statements separately and see if the reason provides a correct explanation for the assertion.
– For the Assertion: It is true that paper planes can provide insights into aerodynamics. By altering the wings’ shape or angle, one can observe changes in lift and drag, helping understand how real airplanes work. This simplicity allows for fundamental aerodynamic concepts like lift, thrust, drag, and gravity to be tested and understood.
– For the Reason: Although birds have inspired flight technology, the statement is inaccurate as the flight of paper planes does not directly mimic bird wing movement. Birds use flapping and adjustments facilitated by muscles, unlike paper planes which glide due to static wing shapes, relying more on surface area and initial thrust than dynamic movement mimicking birds.
Therefore, while the assertion is true, the reason provided is false as it incorrectly explains the inspiration derived from paper planes. Hence, the correct answer is that the assertion is true, but the reason is false.

Key Concept: Concepts of Gravity and Aerodynamics

b) Decrease the angle of attack
[Solution Description]
To increase the speed of the paper plane without altering its shape or size, we can consider the principles of gravity and aerodynamics. Lift must be equal to gravitational pull for steady flight: $Lift = Weight$. To increase speed, we look at the drag force which is dependent on velocity. By tilting the nose slightly downwards, we decrease the angle of attack, reducing drag while maintaining lift due to forward motion. This results in increased speed due to gravity’s assist, as the plane descends slightly faster with reduced resistance.

Key Concept: Concept of Dreaming and Engineering Progression

c) That systematic study and innovation can turn dreams into reality
[Solution Description] The journey from simple paper planes to advanced aircraft exemplifies how initial dreams and simple experiments lead to groundbreaking engineering advancements. It highlights the importance of imagination, continuous experimentation, and learning from failures in making technological progress.

Key Concept: Concept of Observation and Inspiration from Nature

c) By studying the shape and movement of bird wings
[Solution Description] Early inventors studied bird wings to understand flight mechanics, realizing that the shape and motion of wings play a crucial role in creating lift. This observation inspired them to design machines with wings capable of flapping or having curved surfaces to mimic the aerodynamic properties of birds.

Key Concept: Understanding Science

c) An ongoing process of discovery
[Solution Description] In Grade 7, science is described as a process that welcomes curiosity, asks questions, and is open to the unknown, rather than just discovering new facts.

Key Concept: Observing Nature and Inventions

b) Observing birds flying
[Solution Description] The inspiration for human flight stemmed from observing birds in nature. Early inventors studied how birds use their wings to fly, which led to the development of wing-like structures in early flying machines. These observations played a crucial role in understanding aerodynamics and eventually designing aircraft that could mimic the flight mechanisms of birds.

Key Concept: Importance of simple observations leading to major discoveries

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The assertion that simple observations like watching a bird in flight led to the development of aircraft is true because it was these initial observations that inspired inventors and scientists to explore the principles of flight. The reason provided is also true as the study of birds indeed contributed to our understanding of aerodynamics, particularly how wings create lift by manipulating air pressure above and below them. However, while both statements are true and connected, the reason does not directly explain why simple observations led to the development of aircraft; it explains a specific aspect of what was learned from those observations. Therefore, the correct option is that both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

Key Concept: Observation and Analogy

d) It encouraged analysis of air resistance and lift in design
[Solution Description] Observing the flight of a paper plane prompted inventors and scientists to study the principles of aerodynamics more closely. The simple act of watching how a paper plane behaves when thrown led to inquiries into lift, drag, thrust, and weight. By trial and error, as well as analogies with bird wings, engineers developed theories that helped design efficient aircraft. This method of drawing parallels from simple observations to complex phenomena is crucial in scientific discovery.

Key Concept: Curiosity, Flight, Observations

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that observing birds in flight led to the development of modern aviation technology. This is true because early aviators studied the mechanics of bird flight to understand lift and drag, which are fundamental principles in aerodynamics.
The reason states that early inventors used their imagination and curiosity to create models that mimicked bird wings. This is also true as inventors like Leonardo da Vinci and others designed contraptions based on bird anatomy and flight patterns to explore human flight.
Now, let’s consider if the reason provided directly explains the assertion. While the use of imagination and creating models inspired by birds contributed significantly to advancements in aviation, the assertion specifically addresses the broader impact of these observations leading to modern technological advances, which involves multiple factors beyond just imitation of bird wings.
Therefore, both statements are true, but the reason is not a detailed explanation for the assertion.

Key Concept: Observation Leading to Discovery

c) Paper planes
[Solution Description] According to the text, something as simple as a paper plane inspired real scientific explorations of flight by early inventors and modern engineers.

Key Concept: Curiosity, Science and Responsibility

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that human activities have a considerable impact on natural processes on Earth. This is true because activities such as industrialization, deforestation, and pollution have altered ecosystems and contributed to climate change, thereby affecting natural cycles and processes.
The reason states that natural processes operate independently of human actions and society. This statement is false because many natural processes are influenced by human activity; for example, the carbon cycle is affected by emissions from fossil fuel combustion, and water cycles can be impacted by urbanization, which alters land use and affects rainfall patterns.
Thus, while the assertion is true, the reason provided is incorrect. Therefore, the correct answer is: Assertion is true, but Reason is false.

Key Concept: Understanding the Scientific Process

a) It leads to new discoveries through experimentation
[Solution Description] Science as a process is about curiosity and asking questions, leading to exploration and discovery. This process involves conducting experiments and analyzing data, which helps us understand how natural phenomena occur. By observing patterns and developing theories, we gain insights into how the world operates, thus enhancing our knowledge of nature.

Key Concept: Science and Environmental Responsibility

b) They should use science to find sustainability solutions
[Solution Description] Young science explorers are encouraged to see themselves as part of the natural world, where their actions have consequences on the environment. By understanding the link between human activities and nature, they recognize the importance of using science to address environmental challenges. This perspective fosters a sense of responsibility towards creating sustainable solutions, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

Key Concept: Concept of Exploration and Curiosity

b) To welcome curiosity
[Solution Description] Science encourages us to think by welcoming curiosity, asking questions, and being open to the unknown. This approach helps in exploring new ideas and understanding the world around us.

Key Concept: Understanding Changes in Materials

c) Melting of ice
[Solution Description] A reversible change is one where materials can be returned to their original state. Melting ice into water is reversible because when cooled, the water can freeze back into ice.

Key Concept: Role of Experiments in Learning

b) They offer direct experience, enhancing comprehension
[Solution Description] Activities and experiments play a crucial role in learning because they allow students to experience science firsthand. By conducting experiments, students can observe and analyze phenomena directly, leading to a deeper comprehension of scientific concepts. These practical experiences make abstract ideas tangible and help solidify theoretical knowledge by providing real-world context.

Key Concept: Science, Environment, and Society

b) Ecosystem vulnerability and enhanced food security
[Solution Description] Introducing GMOs to increase agricultural productivity can have significant impacts on both the environment and society. From an environmental perspective, GMOs can lead to reduced biodiversity as they may dominate natural species, potentially displacing them. They might also encourage monoculture, which makes ecosystems more vulnerable to pests and diseases. Additionally, there is a risk of cross-breeding with wild species, possibly leading to unforeseen ecological consequences.
From a societal perspective, GMOs can help address food security by producing higher yields and crops that are resistant to pests and adverse weather conditions. This can reduce hunger in areas prone to shortages. However, it can also create socio-economic disparities, as large corporations may dominate the market, reducing opportunities for small-scale farmers and making societies dependent on such technologies.
In conclusion, while GMOs present promising benefits like increased yield and resilience, they also pose challenges including ecological risks and social inequality, necessitating careful consideration and regulation.

Key Concept: Science and Responsibility: Science is connected to environment and society

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description] The assertion states that science plays a role in solving environmental issues, which aligns with the reason given—understanding scientific principles aids in developing sustainable solutions. Since both statements are true and the Reason explains why the Assertion is valid, option a) is correct.

Key Concept: Science’s connection with society

b) Informing policy-making
[Solution Description] Science plays a vital role in society by increasing environmental awareness through research findings and technological advancements. It informs the public about environmental issues, provides data for policy-making, and encourages sustainable behaviors among citizens.

Key Concept: Life Processes, Environmental Impact

c) Releases stored carbon and alters organismal behaviors
[Solution Description] Deforestation significantly influences the global carbon cycle, impacting various life processes. Trees play a crucial role in sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, storing carbon in their biomass. When forests are cut down, not only does this carbon storage capability diminish, but the stored carbon is often released back into the atmosphere through burning or decomposition, increasing atmospheric CO$_2$ levels.
This rise in CO$_2$ contributes to climate change, affecting global temperatures and weather patterns. Plants and animals rely on stable climates for survival; therefore, climatic shifts can disrupt habitats, influencing biodiversity and ecosystems negatively. For example, altered temperatures and precipitation patterns can impact plant growth rates and animal migration, breeding, and feeding habits. These disruptions can threaten the balance of local ecosystems and the interdependent relationships within them, affecting overall biodiversity.
Additionally, increased carbon emissions exacerbate ocean acidification, further stressing marine life by altering pH levels, which affects organisms such as coral reefs and shellfish that rely on calcium carbonate for structural integrity.
Therefore, deforestation has profound implications on the carbon cycle and life processes, significantly shaping the environment’s ability to support diverse forms of life.

Key Concept: Human Activities and the Natural World

c) It raises the carbon dioxide levels
[Solution Description] Deforestation affects the carbon dioxide balance by reducing the number of trees that absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis. Fewer trees mean less CO₂ is removed from the atmosphere, leading to an increase in atmospheric CO₂ levels, which contributes to global warming.

Key Concept: Understanding human activities and their impact on nature

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description] The assertion states that human activities like deforestation lead to a reduction in biodiversity. This is true because removing trees destroys habitats, causing many species to lose their homes, leading to potential extinction. The reason provided suggests that deforestation helps create space for urban expansion. While this reason might be correct in its statement about creating space, it does not directly explain why deforestation leads to a loss of biodiversity. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion.

Key Concept: Understanding human activities and their impact on nature, Science as a process of discovery

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description] Deforestation leads to the removal of trees, reducing the Earth’s capacity to absorb carbon dioxide. This increase in atmospheric CO$_2$ levels contributes significantly to climate change. The reason provided explains one of the roles trees play in managing atmospheric carbon levels through the process of photosynthesis where they absorb carbon dioxide. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are correct, and the reason explains why the assertion is true.

Key Concept: Understanding human activities and their impact on nature

c) Science offers a way to understand and address environmental issues
[Solution Description] Understanding science helps us recognize the connections between human activities and natural events, enabling informed decisions to mitigate environmental challenges.

Key Concept: Understanding human activities, Heat flow

b) It increases local temperatures by creating heat islands
[Solution Description] Urbanization leads to the creation of heat islands due to extensive use of concrete and reduced vegetation. This occurs because buildings and roads absorb and retain heat more than natural landscapes, increasing local temperatures. Additionally, energy consumption from air conditioning and heating systems contributes further to warming. These changes can alter local wind patterns and humidity levels, contributing to regional climate variations.

Key Concept: Curiosity and exploration in science

b) Curiosity encourages asking questions and exploring unknowns
[Solution Description] Curiosity drives us to ask questions and explore unknowns, forming the basis for scientific investigation and discovery.

Key Concept: Science in pollution control

b) Installing catalytic converters in cars
[Solution Description] Catalytic converters are devices fitted in the exhaust systems of vehicles to convert harmful pollutants into less toxic gases by catalyzing redox reactions. They specifically target compounds such as hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides, turning them into water vapor, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen respectively.

Key Concept: Science’s role in addressing environmental challenges, Human activities and their impact on the environment

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description] The assertion states that science is vital in solving environmental issues because it offers new ways to manage pollution and resources. This is true since scientific advancements often lead to improved methods for dealing with environmental problems. The reason given is that green technologies like solar panels and wind turbines decrease dependence on non-renewable energy sources, thereby combating climate change. This is also true and directly supports the assertion by illustrating how scientific innovation directly addresses specific environmental challenges through practical applications.

Key Concept: Renewable Energy, Photovoltaics

c) Interaction of photons with semiconductors to produce electricity
[Solution Description]
Photovoltaic cells, commonly known as solar panels, are devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. This effect occurs when photons from sunlight strike a semiconductor material, typically silicon, within the cell. This interaction excites electrons, creating electron-hole pairs which are then separated by an electric field present in the junction between different types of semiconductors. As these charge carriers are driven towards opposite electrodes, an electric current is generated, which can be harnessed for power.
The photovoltaic effect can be summarized by the following steps:
1. Absorption of photons from sunlight.
2. Excitation of electrons in the semiconductor material.
3. Creation of electron-hole pairs.
4. Separation of charges by the internal electric field.
5. Flow of electric current due to the movement of charges.
This technology aids in reducing reliance on fossil fuels, thus decreasing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy practices.

Key Concept: Photosynthesis, Carbon Cycle

a) Converts carbon dioxide into oxygen, reducing greenhouse gases
[Solution Description]
Photosynthesis is a process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. It involves the intake of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and its conversion into organic compounds while releasing oxygen (O₂) as a by-product. The overall equation for photosynthesis can be represented as:
$6CO_2 + 6H_2O + \text{light energy} \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2$
In this process, terrestrial and aquatic plants act as carbon sinks by absorbing atmospheric CO₂, a significant greenhouse gas contributing to global warming. By reducing the concentration of CO₂ in the atmosphere, photosynthesis helps mitigate the impact of climate change.
Therefore, photosynthesis contributes to the reduction of atmospheric CO₂ levels, thereby playing a crucial role in combating global warming.

Key Concept: The importance of sustainable practices and their scientific basis

b) They provide unlimited power with no emissions
[Solution Description] Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power are promoted because they produce energy without depleting natural resources or emitting greenhouse gases, thereby reducing our carbon footprint and helping combat climate change.

Key Concept: Interconnectedness, Sustainability

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description] The assertion discusses how human actions like deforestation and urbanization negatively impact the environment by disrupting ecological balance. This is true as these activities often result in habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. The reason states that science helps us understand these impacts and devise solutions, which is also true. However, while science does indeed develop sustainable practices, it is not explicitly stated that this understanding fully mitigates all impacts of such activities. Hence, both statements are true, but the reason provided isn’t completely covering or explaining every aspect of the assertion’s consequence.

Key Concept: Science and Responsibility: Creating a Sustainable Future

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that human activities affect natural ecosystems, creating environmental issues that science can help solve. This aligns with the idea from the syllabus that science is connected to environmental responsibility and sustainability. The reason suggests science focuses only on discovery without solving actual issues. This isn’t true as the syllabus implies science aids in tackling environmental challenges. Thus, both sentences aren’t mutually supporting each other; the assertion is true, but the reason is false.

Key Concept: Human responsibility, Natural world interconnectedness

c) Decline in biodiversity
[Solution Description] Urbanization often results in habitat fragmentation and pollution, which are detrimental to local flora and fauna. The construction of roads and buildings disrupts animal migration routes and reduces available habitats. Additionally, pollution from cities can degrade air and water quality, making it difficult for sensitive species to survive. As a result, urbanization typically decreases biodiversity, leading to fewer species in affected areas.

Key Concept: Science and Environment Interaction

c) It leads to environmental degradation
[Solution Description] Human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and the burning of fossil fuels release large amounts of pollutants into the atmosphere. These activities contribute to climate change and global warming due to the increase in greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide. Deforestation leads to habitat loss and decreases biodiversity, while pollution can contaminate water sources and soil, affecting both plant and animal life. Therefore, human activity has significant impacts on the natural environment, often leading to environmental degradation.

Key Concept: Role of science in fostering a sustainable future

b) Implementing renewable energy sources
[Solution Description] Using renewable energy sources reduces reliance on fossil fuels, decreasing pollution and environmental degradation. Renewable energies are sustainable as they use resources like sunlight, wind, and water, which are naturally replenished, thus minimizing long-term impacts on the environment.

Key Concept: Role of Experiments

c) They offer practical understanding and discovery
[Solution Description] Activities and experiments provide hands-on experience with scientific concepts, enabling a practical understanding and application of theories. They encourage curiosity and discovery through direct interaction with the material world.

Key Concept: Scientific Method and Curiosity

b) Making careful observations
[Solution Description]
The first step in the scientific method is making an observation about a particular phenomenon. This observation leads to questions and curiosity, prompting further investigation into why or how something occurs. Observation forms the basis for developing hypotheses and conducting experiments, ultimately leading to a theory if consistent results are obtained.

Key Concept: Curiosity, Exploration, Interconnection with Environment

Correct Answer option b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The assertion emphasizes that thinking like a scientist requires an understanding of how human actions are linked to natural occurrences. This is true because a scientific mindset seeks to comprehend broader relationships in the world.
The reason explains that scientists engage in exploration through experimentation and questioning, which is also true. However, while this process aids in understanding the environment, it does not directly explain the recognition of interconnections mentioned in the assertion.
Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason does not serve as the direct explanation for the assertion’s focus on interconnections.

Key Concept: Exploration and Experimentation

c) To confirm the reliability of the results
[Solution Description]
Repeating experiments allows scientists to verify their results, ensuring that the data is reliable and not due to random errors or anomalies. It also helps in identifying patterns and consistency in outcomes, which are crucial for validating the hypothesis. Furthermore, repetition increases confidence in the findings and supports scientific conclusions with robust evidence.

Key Concept: Scientific Curiosity

c) It facilitates deeper exploration and discovery
[Solution Description] Asking questions leads to a deeper understanding of how things work and why events occur as they do. This process helps in discovering new information and forming connections with known scientific principles.

Key Concept: Introduction to Scientific Thinking

d) It leads to new insights and discoveries
[Solution Description] Asking questions that challenge expected outcomes encourages critical thinking and helps uncover new insights or errors in our understanding. It pushes the boundaries of knowledge by exploring areas that may have been overlooked, leading to innovative discoveries.

Key Concept: Curiosity, Exploration of light and shadows

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
In science, questioning known phenomena can lead to deeper understanding and reveal overlooked details or new areas of inquiry. For example, while the Earth’s rotation causing day and night is a basic concept, probing into this further can lead to exploration of how such rotation affects climate patterns, time zones, and biological rhythms. Thus, science values both expected outcomes and the questions that arise from them, encouraging continual learning and curiosity.
Both statements are true: Science does encourage questioning expected outcomes for deeper insights. However, the reason provided talks about specific consequences (day and night) without directly explaining why questioning these expected outcomes is valuable. Therefore, they are not directly explanatory of each other but support the same general idea.

Key Concept: Observations and Experiments, Practical Applications

b) What specific aspects of the light caused the rapid growth?
[Solution Description] The observation of differing growth rates under varying conditions opens paths for scientific questioning. To understand the underlying cause, the student should focus on how specific conditions affect growth. Asking “What specific aspects of the light caused the rapid growth?” allows for examination of variables like intensity, spectrum, and duration, thereby promoting further experimental scrutiny.

Key Concept: Science encourages asking questions, even about expected outcomes

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description] The assertion states that scientists often ask questions that challenge common perceptions, which is true as it leads to breakthroughs by questioning the status quo. The reason, however, claims that science is merely a process of confirming existing knowledge, which contradicts the nature of scientific inquiry that also involves exploration of new ideas. Thus, while the Assertion is true, the Reason given is false because science is not solely about confirmation but also about discovery and innovation.

Key Concept: The Ever-Evolving World of Science

b) It provides insight into time and seasons
[Solution Description] Understanding Earth’s rotation explains why we experience day and night. As Earth rotates on its axis, different parts are exposed to sunlight, causing daytime, while those facing away from the sun experience nighttime. This fundamental concept aids in illustrating how time and seasons work, influencing broader studies in astronomy and geography.

Key Concept: Encouragement to ask questions, explore, and conduct hands-on experiments

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
The assertion is based on the idea that scientific investigations are dynamic processes. When an experiment confirms a hypothesis, it might reveal unexpected results or inspire curiosity about related phenomena, leading to new questions. This aligns with the encouragement to ask questions and conduct further investigations as part of thinking like a scientist.
The reason states that the scientific process often involves merely confirming existing theories without further questioning. However, this is false. Science thrives on curiosity and exploring new avenues, which means questioning existing knowledge and discovering new aspects.
Therefore, the correct answer is that the Assertion is true because experiments indeed raise new questions, while the Reason is false since science encourages questioning existing theories.

Key Concept: Role of Heat in Natural Processes and Their Inquiry Potential

a) How does temperature affect the rate of evaporation of water?
[Solution Description] Understanding the role of heat in the water cycle naturally leads to exploring specific conditions affecting evaporation. A reasonable subsequent question would involve examining how variables like temperature, humidity, or surface area may influence the rate of evaporation.

Key Concept: Exploring the movements of celestial bodies

c) The cycle of day and night
[Solution Description] Earth’s rotation on its axis results in the cycle of day and night. As Earth rotates, different parts of its surface are exposed to sunlight, causing it to be daytime, while the areas not exposed experience nighttime.

Key Concept: Understanding the Role of Experiments in Raising New Questions

b) How does the amount of salt change the melting rate of ice?
[Solution Description] The observation that adding salt makes ice melt faster can raise several new questions related to temperature, concentration, or even other substances that might have similar effects. One logical follow-up question is about how different amounts of salt affect melting rates, as this directly relates to the observed phenomenon and can deepen understanding.

Key Concept: Interconnectedness of Scientific Ideas Across Different Fields

a) Why do some materials return to their original state after cooling while others do not?
[Solution Description] Observing both reversible (like melting) and irreversible changes (such as burning) upon heating materials invites questions on why some changes can’t be undone. This can lead to inquiries into thermal properties, atomic structure, or chemical reactions.

Key Concept: Exploration, Rethinking, Patterns in Nature

b) Analyze long-term climate data alongside historic migration records.
[Solution Description] To scientifically investigate the hypothesis about birds migrating earlier due to climate change, follow a systematic approach:
Step 1: Collect historical data on migration patterns over several years to identify trends.
Step 2: Gather weather and climate data for the same region and period.
Step 3: Analyze correlations between changes in migration timing and variations in climatic factors like temperature or seasonal shifts.
Step 4: Consider alternative explanations such as food availability.
Step 5: Conduct controlled experiments or simulations if possible to strengthen the causal link.
This multi-step process ensures a thorough investigation incorporating exploration of data patterns and rethinking initial assumptions.

Key Concept: Hands-on Experiments, Inquiry Process

c) Repeat the experiment to verify the results and explore reasons for the difference.
[Solution Description] When encountering an unexpected experimental result like accelerated plant growth with a particular fertilizer:
Step 1: Verify measurements to ensure they were accurate and consistent.
Step 2: Review control variables to confirm no other factors could have influenced results.
Step 3: Replicate the experiment with the same conditions to check consistency.
Step 4: Document all observations and consider potential mechanisms explaining the anomaly.
Step 5: Formulate new hypotheses if needed and design further experiments.
This reflective inquiry process allows effective evaluation of unexpected outcomes through careful examination and repeated testing.

Key Concept: Exploration and Inquiry

c) Observing nature and conducting multiple experiments to understand patterns
[Solution Description]
Exploration in science involves actively seeking out new information and experiences to understand natural phenomena better. It is about being curious and asking questions about how things work. The focus is on experiencing and learning through activities, experiments, and observations that contribute to a deeper understanding of the environment.

Key Concept: Questioning Assumptions, Repeated Inquiry

d) Consider additional environmental factors contributing to observed differences.
[Solution Description] After discovering higher acidity in urban water samples:
Step 1: Validate equipment calibration and measurement methodology for accuracy.
Step 2: Consider environmental factors unique to urban settings, such as pollution sources.
Step 3: Investigate chemical composition differences using additional tests.
Step 4: Explore temporal variations by sampling at different times/seasons.
Step 5: Engage in community dialogue about potential causes and consequences.
These steps encourage comprehensive exploration and questioning beyond initial data, fostering deeper insight into environmental science phenomena.

Key Concept: Scientific thinking involves exploration, rethinking, and repeated inquiry

Correct Answer option b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description] The assertion states that scientific thinking involves questioning and venturing into the unknown, which is a fundamental part of how scientists discover new information and understand the world. The reason given connects exploration with the development of responsibility toward understanding how human actions affect nature. While both statements are true and relate to scientific thinking’s broader scope, the reason does not directly explain why scientific thinking fundamentally requires asking questions and exploring the unknown. Therefore, the reason supports but does not correctly explain the assertion.