The scientific method Flashcards
hypothesis-
(definition)
a possible EXPLANATION for an OBSERVATION
Peer Review-
(definition)
when OTHER scientists check results and explanations before they’re published
True of false? Accepted theories cannot change at all, even if more evidence is found, a new theory must be made. Give an example
False, the theory of atomic structure
Representation models-
(definition)
a simple description or picture of the real system
Give an example of representation models.
the molecular model of matter
Give one use of a representation model
Models help scientists explain observations and make predictions.
Computational models-
(definition)
Computers simulating complex processes
Hazard-
(definition)
Something that could potentially cause harm
Risk-
(definition)
the chance that a hazard would cause harm
Give three examples of a hazard associated with science experiments
- corrosive chemicals (like sulfuric acid)
- faulty electrical equipment
- fire from bunsen burners
True or False: only the seriousness of the harm needs consideration
False. both the seriousness of the harm and the likelihood of it happening need to be taken into consideration
What four issues can scientific development create?
- Economic
- Environmental
- Social
- Personal
Explain how scientific development can cause issues economically
Beneficial technology, like alternate energy sources, may be too expensive to use.
Explain how scientific development can cause issues environmentally
new technology could harm the natural environment
Explain how scientific development can cause issues socially
Decisions based on research can affect people, like taxes on fossil fuels
Explain how scientific development can cause issues personally
Some decisions affect individuals, such as a person may not want wind farm built near their home.
True or False: media reports may be oversimplified, inaccurate or biased.
True
What is the first step to developing a theory
Come up with a hypothesis
What is the second step to developing a theory
test hypothesis
what is the third step to developing a theory
Evidence is peer-reviewed
what is the fourth and final step to developing a theory
if all evidence backs up the hypothesis, it becomes an accepted theory
