CH. 2 Key Terms Flashcards
Observation
The process of obtaining information by using the senses
Hypothesis
A testable idea or explanation that leads to a scientific observation.
Prediction
A statement made in advance that expresses the results that will be obtained from testing a hypothesis.
Experiment
A procedure that is carried out under controlled conditions to discover, demonstrate, or test a fact, theory, or general truth.
Variable
A factor that changes in an experiment in order to test a hypothesis.
Experimental Group
A group that is identical to a control group except for one factor and that is compared with the control group.
Control Group
A group that serves as a standard of comparison with another group to which the control group is identical except for one factor.
Data
Any pieces of information acquired through observation or experimentation.
Correlation
The linear dependence between two variables.
Statistics
The collection and classification of data that are in the form of numbers.
Mean
The number obtained by adding up the data for a given characteristic and dividing this sum by the number of individuals.
Distribution
The relative arrangement of the members of a statistical population
Probability
The likelihood that a possible future event will occur in any given instance of the event
Sample
The group of individuals or events selected to represent a statistical population.
Risk
The probability of an unwanted outcome.
