Chapter 2 Flashcards
(27 cards)
Scientific method
Make observations and develop a question about the observations Develop a tentative answer to the question- hypothesis Design a controlled environment to test Collect data Interpret the data Conclusion Compare conclusion and hypothesis Conduct additional experiments
Mono lake, California
Inflow diverted for LA water supply
Prediversion water level 6417 ft
Historic low water level 1982 6372 ft
Lake would be too salty for marine life by 2013
Observations
Made by any of the five sense of instruments that measure beyond what we sense
Inference
Generalization that arises from a set of observations
Fact
Observations about a particular thing agreed by
Hypothesis
Type of statement used When scientists wish to test an inference Can be disproved If a hypothesis has not been disproved Is still not proven true Only found to be probably true
Controlling variables
A valid scientific experiment keeps all variables constant, except the independent and dependent variables
Controlled experiment
An exact duplicate of an experiment is compared back to a standard control
Independent variable
The altered variable
Drives dependent variable
Dependent variable
This may cause a change in another variable in the experiment
Outcome
Model
Simplified representation of system
Deductive reasoning
Initial definitions and assumptions
Logical reasoning
Drawing conclusions
Inductive reasoning
Scientific method
Limited set of observations
Drawing conclusions
Uncertainty
Experimental errors Systematic errors Accuracy Precision Precise measurements may not be accurate
Theory
Models that offer broad, fundamental explanations of many observations
Pseudoscience
Ideas that are
Untestable
Lack of empirical support
Based on faulty reasoning or poor scientific methodology
Decision making
Formulate a clear statement Gather information List alternatives Predict consequences and probability Choose the best solution Policy makers are rarely scientists Scientific education of all is essential
Engineering
The discipline dealing with the art or science of applying scientific knowledge to practical problems
What do engineers do
Apply math and science principles to help solve practical problems
Create something new or improve something old
Assist managers, politicians, the public, etc. on understanding the implications of technology in addressing important issues
Communicate
What is design
Design is a process Statement of problem Defining constraints and evaluative criteria Developing alternatives Choosing best (optimum) alternative Implementing alternative Evaluating implementation Feedback and redesign
Statement of problem
Establish need
Develop parameters of problem
Usually open ended
Defining constraints and evaluative criteria
Constraints Economic Physical Legislative Evaluative criteria Methods used to choose best alternative Often economics
Developing alternatives
Analysis and synthesis
Technical feasibility
Economic feasibility
Choosing best (optimum) alternative
Optimization
Subjective
Objective (objective function subject to constraints)
Applying evaluative criteria to alternatives