The Modern Atomic Theory (Notes 1-A) Flashcards
observation
any fact or occurrence noted through the five senses
data
facts obtained through measurements (numbers)
hypothesis
an educated guess, in reference to what you expect will happen when you perform an experiment based on based on past observations or knowledge
conclusion
a reasoned (logical) judgment; an inference based on observation
model (scientific model)
a physical or mental representation of something that cannot be observed directly
ex. of very large model
solar system or galaxy
ex of very small model
atoms
law (natural or scientific law)
a statement that summarizes experimental facts about nature where behavior is consistent and has no know expectations
laws describe….
how nature behaves (not why- it merely states facts)
theory
a proposal based on facts (laws) that predicts future events
theories explain…
why nature behaves in a certain fashion
theories change…
as new knowledge is gained
theories are discarded..
as new knowledge warrants it (only when many observations and experiments that disprove the theory)
example of observation…
litmus paper turns red
example of data
pH meter reads 4.7
