STAAR Prep: Force & Motion Flashcards
(20 cards)
What are balanced forces?
Equal forces that do not result in motion
Balanced forces maintain the state of rest or uniform motion of an object.
What is a constant/control in an investigation?
A factor that is kept the same in an investigation to ensure a fair test and accurate results
Control variables are essential for isolating the effect of the independent variable.
What is a conclusion in scientific investigations?
A final statement that communicates the results of an investigation based on the hypothesis
Conclusions help to validate or refute the initial hypothesis.
What is a dependent variable?
The variable being measured in an investigation
It is affected by changes in the independent variable.
Define force.
A push or a pull
Forces can cause an object to start moving, stop moving, or change direction.
What is friction?
A force that acts in an opposite direction to movement
Friction can slow down or stop an object in motion.
What is gravity?
A force that pulls objects together
Gravity is responsible for the attraction between masses, such as Earth and objects on its surface.
What is a hypothesis?
A prediction based on background knowledge and research
A hypothesis is formulated before conducting an investigation.
Define independent variable.
The variable changed by a scientist in an investigation
The independent variable is what the experimenter manipulates to observe its effect.
What is an investigation?
A set of steps followed to answer a testable question
Investigations often include forming a hypothesis, conducting experiments, and analyzing results.
What is magnetism?
The attraction to a magnet
Magnetism involves forces between magnetic materials, such as iron.
Define motion.
A change in position
Motion can be described in terms of speed and direction.
What is an observation?
A description based on the senses or measurements
Observations are crucial for gathering data during an investigation.
What is position?
The location of an object
Position can be described using reference points.
What does reliable mean in the context of scientific results?
How consistent a result is when repeated at least 3 times
Reliable results can increase the confidence in the findings.
What is a testable question?
A question which is able to be tested through scientific investigation
Testable questions lead to hypotheses that can be investigated experimentally.
Define trial in scientific experiments.
A test, often repeated multiple times for validity and reliability
Multiple trials help to confirm the results and reduce the impact of anomalies.
What are unbalanced forces?
Unequal forces that do result in motion
Unbalanced forces cause a change in an object’s state of motion.
What does valid mean in an experimental context?
When an experiment’s results answer a question and can be accepted as true
Valid experiments provide credible evidence to support or refute hypotheses.
What is a variable in scientific investigations?
A factor that changes in an investigation
Variables can be independent, dependent, or controlled.
