Scientific Method and Measurement (Unit 1, Day 1)

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the scientific method, statistical analysis, significant figures, units of measurement, and data analysis strategies, providing a comprehensive review for exam preparation.

What is the difference between correlation and causation?

Correlation is a connection between two variables, while causation indicates that one variable directly causes a change in another.

What are the steps of the scientific method?

1. Observe and Question 2. Research 3. Formulate a Hypothesis 4. Test your Hypothesis 5. Analyze and Conclude 6. Share the Results

What is a hypothesis?

A starting point for further investigation, created as a testable theory.

What does it mean for a scientific theory to be falsifiable?

It means the theory can be tested and potentially disproven, indicating it is scientific.

What is an example of correlation that does not imply causation?

Finding that towns with more churches also have more bars; it does not mean that religion makes people want to drink.

What is the role of controlled variables in an experiment?

Controlled variables are factors that are kept the same for all setups to ensure a fair test.

What is a t-test used for in scientific analysis?

It is a statistical test used to compare the means of two groups.

What are significant figures?

Digits in a number that are considered important for precision in measurement.

What is scientific notation?

A shorthand representation of numbers using powers of 10.

Who is considered the founding father of the metric system?

Gabriel Mouton, a French mathematician.

How do you convert from a larger unit to a smaller unit in the metric system?

By moving the decimal point to the right.

What is an example of a qualitative data analysis method?

Thematic Analysis, which focuses on finding patterns in data.

What are the two main types of data analysis strategies?

Quantitative and Qualitative.

What is the purpose of sharing scientific results?

To allow peers to review work, indicating reproducibility and the importance of even failed results.

How do you determine the number of significant figures in a number?

1. All nonzero digits are significant. 2. Final zeroes in the decimal place are significant. 3. All zeroes between significant figures are significant. 4. Leading zeroes are not significant.

What is the metric unit for mass?

Kilogram.

What are fundamental measurements in physics?

Measurements of length, mass, time, temperature, amount of substance, electric current, and luminous intensity.