Scientific Method & Chemisty Of Life Flashcards
(54 cards)
Observation
Asking questions based on the use of one or more of the 5 senses to perceive the natural world
Hypothesis
A testable explanation of your observations
Experiment
Testing the hypothesis under controlled conditions
Inference
Logical explanation based on prior knowledge
Controlled experiment
Experiment in which all variable are kept unchanged except one
Manipulated variable
The variable that is changed between the control group and the experimental group
Independent variable
Manipulated variable
Responding variable
The factor that is observed and responds to the manipulated variable (what we count or measure)
Dependent variable
Responding variable
Control group
The group that is being tested under normal conditions
Experimental group
The group that is being tested under new or experimental conditions
Analyze data
Analyzing data to see it supports or refutes the hypothesis
Quantitative data
Counting or measuring. Expressed as numbers
Qualitative data
Descriptive, characteristics that cannot be counted or measured
Conclusion
Determining the validity of a hypothesis based on the data in the results that you collected during the experiment
Scientific theory
A well tested explanation that unifies a broad range of observations
Scientific law
What scientists expect to happen every time under certain conditions but does not explain why
Curiosity
Scientists ask questions about what they observe, results of studies lead to new questions
Skepticism
Scientists question existing ideas and hypothesis, they do not believe ideas without evidence
Open mindedness
Scientists must be able to accept new ideas that they may not agree with
Creativity
Scientists need to think creatively to design experiments that provide good data
Peer review
Scientists publish their findings to be reviewed by other scientists who look for mistakes or other problems
Bias
A certain preference or point of view that is personal rather than scientific
Biology
The study of life
