Chapter 0: The Scientific Process Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering the scientific process, historical figures, investigation types, ethical standards, and engineering practices from Chapter 0.

Science

The use of evidence to construct testable explanations and predictions of natural phenomena, as well as the knowledge generated through this process.

Scientific inquiry

The essential characteristic of science involves the planned and deliberate investigation of the natural world.

Hippocrates

A prominent Greek physician who focused on understanding the natural causes of diseases, gathered medical histories, and used reason and empirical experience for treatments.

Hippocratic Oath

A modern adaptation of the ethical code established by Hippocrates for the medical profession.

Scientific methods

Patterns of investigation that scientists often follow, which can include adding, skipping, or repeating steps depending on the investigation.

Descriptive Investigations

Investigations that involve collecting data and recording observations without making comparisons.

Comparative Investigations

Investigations involving collecting data with variables that are manipulated to compare results.

Experimental Investigations

Investigations involving processes similar to comparative investigations but in which a control is identified.

Hypothesis

A tentative and testable statement that must be capable of being supported or not supported by observational evidence.

Ethics

A set of moral principles or values that can be used to govern decision-making and behavior.

Plagiarism

The act of using the ideas or words of another without citing the source.

Fabrication

The act of inventing new data or manipulating results, which is prohibited by scientific ethics.

Peer review

A process where the procedures and results of an experiment are evaluated by scientists who have expertise in the same area of study.

Bias

What occurs when a scientist’s expectations affect how results are analyzed or conclusions are made.

Blind experiments

A method to lessen bias where the researcher does not know which experimental group is manipulated until after the data are analyzed.

Scientific theory

A highly reliable, well-established explanation of a natural or physical phenomenon supported by many observations and investigations.

Scientific law

A statement about what happens in nature that seems to be true all the time.

Green Revolution

A period beginning in the $1950s$ that led to dramatically improved crop yields through scientific impact.

Stewardship

The biblical call to "work and keep" the earth, using science as a tool to prevent exploitation and neglect of creation.

Criteria

The measurable requirements for a successful solution in engineering, including size and function.

Constraints

Factors that limit a solution’s design, such as cost, durability, and materials available.

Model

A representation of some aspect of an idea, system, phenomenon, process, structure, object, or solution that incorporates relevant details.

Science and Engineering Practices

A shared set of tools used to define explanations and solve problems, ranging from asking questions to using models.