Nature and Impact of Science and Engineering Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is the difference between a scientific law and a scientific theory?
A law describes what happens; a theory explains why it happens.
Why is scientific knowledge considered tentative?
It is open to revision based on new evidence or better interpretations.
What are three types of scientific models?
Physical, mathematical, and conceptual.
What is empirical evidence?
Data collected through observation or experimentation.
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data?
Qualitative=descriptions; quantitative=numbers/measurements.
What are crosscutting relationships in science?
Ideas that apply across all domains of science (e.g., patterns, cause and effect, systems).
What is engineering design?
A process to define problems and create solutions based on criteria and constraints.
What is the purpose of iteration in engineering?
To improve and refine a design based on test results.
What is a constraint in engineering?
A limitation such as cost, time, or materials.
What is a criterion in engineering?
A specific requirement or goal that a solution must meet.
What is a hazard associated with heating substances in a lab?
Risk of burns, fires, or chemical splashes.
What equipment is used to measure mass?
A triple-beam balance or digital scale.
What is the function of goggles in the lab?
To protect eyes from chemicals, glass, or heat.
How should broken glass be disposed of in a lab?
In a designated sharps container, not the trash.
Why is peer review important in science?
It ensures the validity and reliability of research findings.
