Science Inquiry

Question 1

Validity

Answer 1

Degree to which a test measures what it’s supposed to

Question 2

How to increase validity

Answer 2

• more controlled variables (e.g. maintain volume, concentration)
• improve experimental design -> make sure only independent variable is changed

Question 3

Reliability

Answer 3

Extent to which the same result can be achieved when a test is repeated

Question 4

How to improve reliability

Answer 4

• repeat the whole investigation
• multiple trials
• increase sample size
• increasing controlled variables

Question 5

Accuracy

Answer 5

how correct or true the measurements are

Question 6

How to improve accuracy

Answer 6

• using the correct equipment

Question 7

Human error

Answer 7

simply a mistake
reading scale on an instrument, spilling liquid before measuring volume
not part of experimental error & should be avoidable

Question 8

Random error

Answer 8

unpredictable error that occur
no measurement can be made with absolute precision
e.g. stopping a stopwatch too early or late

Question 9

How can we reduce random error

Answer 9

reduce by taking several measurements and averaging them

Question 10

Systematic Error

Answer 10

Occur bc of way experiment is designer or due to problems with equipment
measurement will always be too high or low

Question 11

How can we reduce systematic error

Answer 11

change experimental procedure or equipment
not by averaging