Scientific Skills Flashcards
What is a variable in a scientific experiment?
A variable is any factor that can change or be changed in an experiment.
What is the independent variable?
The independent variable is the variable that the scientist changes or manipulates in an experiment to test its effect.
What is the dependent variable?
The dependent variable is the variable that is measured or observed in an experiment. It depends on the independent variable.
What are controlled variables?
Controlled variables are factors that are kept the same throughout an experiment to ensure the results are due to the independent variable only.
Why is it important to control variables in an experiment?
Controlling variables ensures that the experiment is fair and that the results are valid, showing the true effect of the independent variable.
What is a hypothesis?
A hypothesis is a statement or educated guess about what the scientist thinks will happen in the experiment, based on prior knowledge.
What is the importance of repetition in scientific experiments?
Repetition is important to ensure the results are reliable and consistent. It helps to confirm the findings are not due to chance.
What is a fair test in science?
A fair test is when only one variable (the independent variable) is changed, and all other variables are kept the same, ensuring unbiased results.
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data?
Qualitative data describes qualities in words (e.g., colour, texture, smell).
Quantitative data involves numbers and measurements (e.g., length, mass, temperature).
