SIS

Question 1

What is an inquiry question?

Answer 1

Defines what is being investigated

Question 2

What is a hypothesis?

Answer 2

Prediction based on previous knowledge and evidence/observations that attempts to answer inquiry questions

Question 3

What are primary sources?

Answer 3

Original sources of data/evidence e.g. articles with research findings

Question 4

What are secondary sources?

Answer 4

Analyses and interpretations of primary sources e.g. textbooks

Question 5

What are variables in an investigation?

Answer 5

Factors monitored during an investigation/experiment

Question 6

What is an independent variable?

Answer 6

Variable determined by the researcher (one that is selected and changed)

Question 7

What is a dependent variable?

Answer 7

Variable that may change based on a change in the independent variable; variable that is measured/observed

Question 8

What is a controlled variable?

Answer 8

Variables kept constant during an investigation

Question 9

What does validity refer to in an experiment?

Answer 9

Whether an experiment is testing the set hypothesis/aim; only 1 variable is changing at a time

Question 10

What is reliability in the context of experiments?

Answer 10

The notion that if the experiment is repeated many times, it will be accurate

Question 11

Define accuracy in measurements.

Answer 11

The ability to obtain correct measurement; must minimise systematic errors

Question 12

Define precision in measurements.

Answer 12

The ability to consistently obtain the same measurement; must minimise random errors

Question 13

How can accuracy and precision be analogized?

Answer 13

Accuracy is ability to hit bullseye while precision is ability to consistently hit the same mark

Question 14

What are systematic errors?

Answer 14

Measured error will always be above or below true value; will occur again if investigation is repeated in the same way

Question 15

What usually causes systematic errors?

Answer 15

Instruments not being correctly calibrated or methods are flawed

Question 16

What are random errors?

Answer 16

Unpredictable and normally small (not a mistake)

Question 17

What are some methods for reducing error in experiments?

Answer 17

• Appropriate equipment
• Significant figures
• Calibrated equipment, correct use of equipment
• Repeat trials

Question 18

What should conclusions in an experiment relate to?

Answer 18

Findings to chemical concept, draw evidence-based conclusions