Unit 1- Scientist Tools Flashcards
Describe the Scientific Process
The process of objectively establishing facts through testing and experimentation. Usually follows theses steps: Observation, Question, Hypothesis, Experiment, Conclusion, and Result.
Distinguish between Independent and Dependent variables and Constants.
Independent Variable: the factor that the researcher intentionally changes to observe its effect on another variable.
Dependent Variable: the factor that changes in response to the change of the Independent Variable.
Constant: a factor that is kept the same throughout the experiment to ensure a fair comparison.
Properly construct a Hypothesis, as opposed to a Prediction
Hypothesis: a testable statement that proposes a potential explanation for a phenomenon, typically written as a “if -> Then” statement.
Prediction: a specific outcome you expect to observe based on your hypothesis, usually detailing the expected results of an experiment designed to test that hypothesis.
Understand the fundamental difference between a Theory and a Law
Theory: explains how or why behavior happens. May be revised over time as new evidence is presented. Can never be completely proven as 100% true and complete
Laws: Describe what happens; they do not attempt to explain why. Usually a mathematical equation that can be used to describe or predict a situation. Can be proven true.
Distinguish between qualitative and quantitative measurements
Qualitative: observations are qualitative records, meaning that do not include numbers and measurements. Included notes about color; texture; formation of solids, liquids, or gases; heat flow and anything else that happens through out an experiment.
Quantitative: data is often quantitative, consisting of measurements with numbers; however data can be qualitative.
Explain proper descriptors to use in observations
Clear and colorless. Clear means that you can see through something, whereas colorless means that it has no color.
What is the scientific process?
The scientific process involves systematic observation, measurement, experimentation, and the formulation, testing, and modification of hypotheses.
What is the difference between independent and dependent variables?
Independent variables are manipulated in an experiment, while dependent variables are measured and affected by changes in the independent variable.
How do you construct a hypothesis?
A hypothesis is a testable statement predicting the outcome of an experiment, distinct from a mere prediction.
What is the fundamental difference between a theory and a law?
A theory explains why phenomena occur, while a law describes the phenomena themselves.
What are qualitative measurements?
Qualitative measurements describe characteristics or qualities that cannot be measured numerically.
What are quantitative measurements?
Quantitative measurements involve numerical values and units, allowing for precise measurement.
What are the selected SI units?
The selected SI units include meter (m), kilogram (kg), second (s), ampere (A), kelvin (K), mole (mol), and candela (cd).
What is the principle of uncertainty in lab measurements?
The principle of uncertainty acknowledges that all measurements have a degree of uncertainty, which must be considered in calculations.
What is the process of designing your own lab?
Designing your own lab involves planning experiments, selecting variables, and determining methods of observation and measurement.
