Matter, Energy, and Measurement

Scientific Law

Statement that summarizes an observation and states what will happen under certain conditions

• Universally accepted

• Never incorrect

The Law of Conservation of Mass

Mass in an isolated system can neither be created nor destroyed

Scientific Theory

A unifying model that provides an explanation as to why and how something happens
Example: John Dalton proposed the Atomic theory based on the Law of Conservation of Mass

Atomic Theory

Matter is composed of small, indivisible particle called atoms

What are atoms made up of?

Neurons, Protons, and Electrons

The Scientific Method

1. Observations

2. Question

3. Hypothesis

4. Experiments

5. Data Analysis/Laws

6. Theories

Hypothesis vs Theory vs Law

• Hypothesis: Limited explanation of a phenomenon

• Theory: In-depth explanation of the observed phenomenon

• Law: States the observation

What is a good hypothesis?

It is testable:

• Can be confirmed by experimentation or observations

and it is falsifiable:

• can be refuted by experimentation

Experimentation

Observation or measurements conducted under controlled environments such as temperature, pressure, or volume

Qualitative

Describes a process happens

example: “the product was durable and easy to use”

Quantitative

Measuring or quantifying a specific factor in the process

example: Number of visitors, temperature 50 F, weight 120 lbs

Data Analysis

Evaluating whether the results support or refute the hypothesis, and if further expirmentation is needed

Conclusion

Reject or Accept the hypothesis; can be asked new questions or further testing. If rejected, can find a new hypothesis.