KO: 1 Working scientifically in biology Flashcards
Reliable
Results are reliable when they can be repeated consistently
Repeatable
A measurement is repeatable if the original experimenter repeats the investigation using the same method and equipment and obtains the same results
Reproducible
A measurement is reproducible if the investigation is repeated by another person, or by using different equipment or techniques, and the same results are obtained
Accurate
Accurate results are very close to the true value
Valid
This refers to how well a scientific test actually measure what it sets out to
Anomaly
Anomalies are results that are completely out of line compared with others and are often ignored
Systematic error
Systematic error is due to measurement results differing from the true value by a consistent amount each time
Random error
Random errors in experimental measurements are caused by unknown and unpredictable changes in the experiment. These changes may occur in measuring instruments or in the environmental conditions. Can be reduced by making more measurements and reporting a mean value
Resolution
the smallest reading that a piece of equipment can give. e.g. standard 30cm ruler has a resolution of 1mm
Precision
Precise measurements are ones in which there is very little spread about the mean value
Quantitative data
Results from an experiment that are expressed using numbers
Qualitative data
Results from an experiment that are expressed using words
Independent
The variable that you choose to vary in this investigation
Dependent
The variable that is used to measure the effect of the varying independent variable
Controlled
The experimental elements which are kept constant and unchanged throughout the course of the investigation
