The Scientific Method Flashcards
What is the scientific method
An attempt at using an organised approach to solve problems.
Core of the scientific method
Consists of asking questions and searching for answers
Steps of the scientific method
Making observations Formulating a hypothesis Designing a controlled experiment Collecting and interpreting data Forming a conclusion Comparing conclusion with existing knowledge Reporting and publishing results Developing theories and principles
What is a hypothesis?
A testable, tentative answer to a question,
An educated guess based on an observation.
Experiment definition
A test for a hypothesis
Theory definition
An explanation based on repeated hypotheses and experimentation.
Principle/law definition
When a theory is seen always to be true under all conditions over a long period of time.
Replicate def
When an experiment is repeated
What are the two parts to an experiment
A control group- No change, normal conditions
Experimental group- Variables are changed
Two variables
Independent variable Dependent variable (Only one should be changed at a time)
Independent variable
Changed by experimenter
Dependent variable
Responding to the effect
Constants
Dont change
Can controlled variables change?
They could, but aren’t allowed to.
What is prediction
The goal of experiments
Fair experimental procedures examples
Large sample size,
Double blind testing,
Random selection,
Reporting experiments publicly (so they can be replicated)
Ethics
Refers to whether issues are right or wrong, moral or immoral.
Ethical issues in science
Animal testing Animal cloning Freezing of embryos and sperm Abortion Origin of life Evolution (if it took place)
Principles of experimentation
Plan and design experiment Be aware of safety procedures Select organisms at random Use large sample size Control group Double-blind testing Change one factor at a time Measure changes Analyse results State possible sources of error Repeat experiment
Safety procedure
Tie hair back Wear lab coat/goggles No running Keep electrical equipment and water separate Wash hands before touching eyes or mouth Report all accidents to teacher
What is a control
A second experiment used as a comparison against which the real experiment can be judged. The conditions are kept the same.
Limitations of the value of the scientific method
The extent of our knowledge (to ask questions)
The basis of investigation (if it’s done badly results may be invalid)
Interpreting results (correctly analysing them)
Changes in the natural world (limited to the present)
Accidental discoveries
Double-blind testing
Where both the investigator and patient are unaware of which is the control.
