Physics MidTerm Flashcards
A pattern, plan, representation, or description designed to show the structure of workings of an object, system, or concept.
Model
A set of particles or interacting components considered to be a distinct physical entity for the purpose of study
System
An explanation that is based on prior scientific research or observations and that can be tested
Hypothesis
An experiment that tests only one factor at a time by using a comparison of a control group with an experimental group
Controlled Experiment
A description of how close a measurement is to correct or accepted value of the quantity measured
Accuracy
The degree of exactness of a measurement
Precision
Those digits in a measurement that are known with certainty plus the first digit that is uncertain
Significant Figures
A system for specifying the precise location of objects in space and time
Frame of Reference
The change in position of an object
Displacement
The total displacement divided by the time interval during which the displacement occurred
Average velocity
The velocity of an object at some instant or at a specific point in the object’s path
Instantaneous Velocity
The rate at which velocity changes over time; an object accelerates if its speed, direction, or both change
Acceleration
The motion of a body when only the force due to gravity is acting on the body
Free Fall
A physical quantity that has magnitude but no direction
Scalar
A physical quantity that has both magnitude and direction
Vector