Scientific Method Flashcards
(25 cards)
scientific method
A series of steps followed to solve problems including collecting data, formulating a hypothesis, testing the hypothesis, and stating conclusions.
independent variable
The experimental factor that is manipulated or intentionally changed; the variable whose effect is being studied.
controlled variables (constants)
A variables that is not changed; kept the same for all groups in an experiment
experimental group
A subject or group of subjects in an experiment that is exposed to the factor or condition being tested.
control group
A group separated from the rest of the experiment where the independent variable being tested cannot influence the results
one
the number of variables tested at time in a controlled experiment
hypothesis
A proposed answer to a question; an educated guess
purpose of a control group
allows experimenter to view changes caused by variables in an experiment
dependent variable
The factor in an experiment that is measured by the scientist
importance of including only one variable in an experiment
You are able to more accurately determine the cause of the results of the experiment
quantitative data
An observation that deals with a number or amount
qualitative data
Information describing color, odor, shape, or some other physical characteristic
Observation
Information obtained through the senses.
Inference
A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning
Proper format for a hypothesis
if-then statement
angle of light
In the following problem, identify the independent variable: How does the angle of light affect the temperature of a surface?
surface temperature
In the following problem, identify the dependent variable: How does the angle of light affect the temperature of a surface?
increase in sea otter population
In the following problem, identify the independent variable: How does an increase in the Pacific sea otter population affect the abalone population off the coast of California?
abalone population
In the following problem, identify the dependent variable: How does an increase in the Pacific sea otter population affect the abalone population off the coast of California?
amount of smoking
In the following problem, identify the independent variable: How does the amount of smoking affect cancer rates?
cancer rates
In the following problem, identify the dependent variable: How does the amount of smoking affect cancer rates?
Air pressure
In the following problem, identify the independent variable: How does air pressure affect the boiling point of water?
Boiling point of water
In the following problem, identify the dependent variable: How does air pressure affect the boiling point of water?
Theory
A hypothesis that has been tested with a significant amount of data
