Ch. 2 Key Terms Flashcards
statistics
the practice or science of collecting and analyzing numerical data in large quantities, especially for the purpose of inferring proportions in a whole from those in a representative sample.
mean
is the number obtained by adding the data fora characteristic and dividing this sum by the number of individuals.
distribution
is the relative arrangement of the members of a statistical population.
probability
The chance that something will happen
sample
a group of individuals or events selected to represent the population
risk
is the probability of an unwanted outcome
models
are representations of objects or systems.
conceptual model
is a verbal or graphical explanation of how a system works or is organized.
mathematical model
is one or more equations that represents the way a system or process works.
observation
is a piece of information we gather using our senses—our sight, hearing, smell, and touch.
hypothesis
is a testable idea or explanation that leads to a scientific investigation.
prediction
a logical statement about what will happen if the hypothesis is supported.
experiment
is a procedure designed to test a hypothesis under controlled conditions.
varible
is the factor of interest, which, in our example, would be the level of phosphate in the water.
experimental group
The group that receives the experimental treatment is called the experimental
control group
The group that does not receive the experimental treatment is called the control group.
data
The information that a scientist gathers during an experiment, which is often in numeric form
correlations
the linear dependence between two variables
valuables
principles or standards we consider important.
decision making model
is a conceptual model that provides a systematic process for making decisions
