Science Inquiry Flashcards
Define hypothesis
A supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.
What is an independent variable?
The factor being investigated, the one being changed on purpose.
What is a dependent variable?
The factor that changes because of the independent, the responding variable.
What is a controlled variable?
Factors that are kept the same for both controlled and experimental groups.
What is a controlled group?
It is the group that is used as the basis, nothing is changed, they can be given a placebo.
What is an experimental group?
It is the group that is being given the proper drug (for example).
Define observation.
An act or instance of viewing or noting a fact or occurrence for some scientific or other special purpose.
Define inference.
An inference is an idea or conclusion that’s drawn from evidence and reasoning. An inference is an educated guess.
Define placebo.
An inactive substance or preparation used as a control in an experiment or test to determine the effectiveness of a medicinal drug.
What is a blind trial?
An experiment in which information about the test is masked (kept) from the participant, to reduce or eliminate bias, until after a trial outcome is known.
What is a double blind trial?
An experimental procedure in which neither the subjects of the experiment nor the persons administering the experiment know the critical aspects of the experiment.
What does it mean when there is said to be errors on methodology?
It means that an experiments method contains problems which can effect the outcome.
What does it mean when an experiment is said to be bias?
It means that there is an inclination or prejudice for or against one person or group, especially in a way considered to be unfair.
Define valid.
When an experiment tests what its supposed to.
Define reliable.
The extent to which an experiment gives the same result each time it is performed.
