PHYC 100: Introduction to Science and Physics

Vocabulary flashcards covering the definitions of science, physics, the metric system, and unit conversions as presented in the PHYC 100 introduction.

Science

The search for relationships that explain and predict the behavior of the universe.

Scientific Model Building

The process in which models serve to simplify observed phenomena and relationships.

Physical Models

Models that exist as concrete, $3\text{D}$ objects.

Gestural Models

Kinesthetic models representing body movements.

Verbal Models

Spoken/written models using analogy or metaphor.

Pictorial Models

Visual models such as diagrams or animations.

Numerical Models

Models consisting of data tables or lists.

Graphical Models

Models using ordered pairs.

Mathematical Models

Models represented by equations or formulas.

Model Limitations

No model can represent a phenomenon exactly, potentially leading to invalid assumptions or the mistaking of the model for reality.

Physics

The science concerned with relationships and transformations among types of matter and energy.

Metric System

A measurement system based on the decimal (base $10$) number system.

Meter

A unit used to measure length or distance, approximately the width of a doorway.

Millimeter ($\text{mm}$)

A unit of length about the thickness of a dime.

Centimeter ($\text{cm}$)

A unit of length about the width of a paper clip or fingernail.

Kilometer ($\text{km}$)

A unit of distance about six city blocks or $10$ football fields; $1.6\text{ km}$ is about $1\text{ mile}$.

Kilogram ($\text{kg}$)

A unit used to measure mass or weight, weighing about as much as $6$ apples or $2\text{ pounds}$.

Milligram ($\text{mg}$)

A unit of weight approximately equal to a grain of salt.

Gram ($\text{g}$)

A unit of weight approximately equal to a small paper clip.

Liter ($\text{L}$)

A unit used to measure liquids or capacity.

Milliliter ($\text{mL}$)

A unit of volume approximately equal to one drop.

Metric Conversion (Larger to Smaller)

To change from a larger unit to a smaller unit, you must multiply by a power of $10$.

Metric Conversion (Smaller to Larger)

To change from a smaller unit to a larger unit, you must divide by a power of $10$.

Hour

A unit of time equal to $60\text{ minutes}$ or $3600\text{ seconds}$.

Year

The time for the Earth to travel once around the sun, equal to $365 \frac{1}{4}$ days.