Science ch1

Science and Measure P1 Science: to know A branch of knowledge dealing with a body of facts showing the operation of general laws 1. Natural Science: a description of how the world works based on measurable facts (data) through the formation of testable explanations WOrds to Know 1. Belief: a statement that is not scientifically provable 2. Fact: a. realities and truths supported by incontrovertible evidence 3. Observation: the action or process of observing something in order to gain information based on facts 4. Quantitative Observation: (quantity) how many They will always include a number 5. Qualitative Observation: (Physical Characteristics) Usually made with our senses NO numbers Color, shape, feel, taste, sound Objective/Subjective: Objective: An observation based on a FACT Subjective: An observation based on an OPINION Ex) The counter tops in class are black. Objective Ex) Well done the french fries taste good Subjective Ex) Vacation was too short! Subjective Ex) There are sixty seconds in a minute. Objective Ex) Science sounds like fun today. Subjective Scientific Method: A logical method of problem solving to investigate new knowledge or revise existing information OARHEC Observation Ask Research Hypothesis (most important) Evidence Conclusion Hypothesis: A proposed explanation for an observation If/then: If something is done, then something else will occur Controlled Experiment: An experiment that only tests one factor at a time by using a comparison of a control group and experimental group Control (Placebo - inert) Group: The group where the scientists change nothing Creates a standard for comparison Closest to actual conditions Experimental Group: The group where the scientists changes a variable Double - Blind Experimental Group: The group where neither the experimenters nor the subjects are aware of the subjects´ group status 3 types of Variables: Independent variable (x) Something that is controlled/changed by the scientist What is manipulated (changed) Time is often used as the IV - BUT NOT ALWAYS Dependent Variable (y) Something that might be affected by the change and measured What is observed/measured/tested The responding data collected during the investigation Constant Variable (does not change) A variable that is not changed and stays the same Sometimes called control Allows for a ¨fair test¨ Theory: the most logical explanation based on overwhelming evidence collected over time of why (and how) things happen as they do in nature They can be tested and refined as technology improves Provides scientists with a framework for additional research and allows them to make predictions Law: describes what happens in nature under specific conditions Generally stated as a mathematical formula but can be a written statement No proof needed