Data Presentation. Flashcards
Why do we repeat experiments?
To make the results more accurate and reliable.
How can we make results more reliable?
By repeating experiments.
Why do we analyze data to understand the information?
In scientific investigations, after collecting data and presenting it in table format, we have to analyze the data to understand the information.
How do we analyze data to understand the information?
We do this by means of pie charts, bar graphs and line graphs.
What 2 things do line graphs do?
- Line graphs show how information is connected.
- Line graphs compare two variables.
In the example of the rabbit population, the number of years is called what and is plotted where?
So, in the example of the rabbit population, the number of years is the independent variable and is plotted on the x-axis.
In the example of the rabbit population, the number of rabbits is called what and is plotted where?
So, in the example of the rabbit population, the number of rabbits in the population is the dependent variable and is plotted on the y-axis.
Define independent variable?
The independent variable is the quantity you choose to change.
Define dependent variable?
The dependent variable is the value you get in response to the independent variable.
What should all axes have?
All axes should be labeled with a quantity and a unit (for example, Length/m).
How should you mark the points?
Use an x to mark the points to the nearest half of a small square.
(It is important to use a sharp pencil when marking the points).
Define line of best fit.
Line of best fit is a straight line drawn through the centre of plotted points on a graph that best represents the overall picture of what the data is showing.
Fill in the missing answers:
The line _______ experimental errors. If there is a point which is too ___ from the other points, you can ____ that point. Alternatively, if the equipment is still available you can ___ the experiment on that point, to see if you can _______ the cause for the point being out of line.
The line excludes experimental errors. If there is a point which is too far from the other points, you can reject that point. Alternatively, if the equipment is still available you can redo the experiment on that point, to see if you can identify the cause for the point being out of line.
What type of line graph is better for the sciences?
Biology = Dot to Dot (unless if asked for line of best fit). Chemistry = Line of best fit. Physics = Line of best fit.
Define anomaly.
An unexpected change within these data patterns is called an anomaly.
