Scientific method Flashcards
Define Science
study of the physical, living and material world
Define Biology
study of all living things
list the steps in the scientific method
observation
hypothesis
experiment
data
conclusion
Define theory
a hypothesis that has been supported by many different experiments
Principal/law
arises from a theory that has been shown to be valid when fully tested over a long period of time
Experiment
test for a hypothesis
Variable
Factor that may change in an experiment
list principles of experimentation
Careful planning and design
ensure the experiment is safe
an experiment must be fair
Design a control experiment
Control
provides a comparison/standard to which the actual experiment is judged
Replicate
Repeat of an experiment
Double Blind
both the investigator and the participant are unaware of the nature of the treatment the participant is receiving
Limitations of scientific method
the extent of our knowledge
basis of investigation
interpreting results
accidental discoveries
changes in natural world
Ethics
Relates to whether conduct is right or wrong