01.00 Characteristics of Chemistry

Scientific Method

An organized procedure to investigate phenomena, gain new knowledge, correct errors, and test theories through observations, measurements, and experiments.

Hypothesis

An educated guess or proposed explanation that can be tested to determine its validity.

Data

Observations and measurements collected for reference and analysis from scientific experiments.

Qualitative Data

Information about qualities that cannot be measured, such as softness or color.

Quantitative Data

Information about quantities that can be measured and expressed numerically, such as height or shoe size.

Scientific Theory

A set of statements or principles that explain a group of facts and can predict natural phenomena.

Scientific Law

A statement based on repeated observations that describes an aspect of the universe and implies a causal relationship.

Conclusion

The result or outcome of an experiment.

Bar Graph

A visual representation used to show comparisons between different categories.

Line Graph

A graph that shows how a particular data set changes over equal intervals of time.

Circle Graph

A visual representation that shows proportions compared to a whole using percentages.

Significant Figures

Digits in a number that contribute to its accuracy and carry meaning.

Dimensional Analysis

A mathematical system using conversion factors to change units of measurement.

Variables

Factors in an experiment that are measured or manipulated.

Control Variables

Factors that remain constant in an experiment to ensure valid results.

SI System

The modern metric system of measurement used internationally in commerce and trade.

Scientific Notation

A method of expressing large or small numbers as a decimal between 1 and 10 multiplied by a power of 10.

Independent Variable

The variable that is changed by the experimenter to test its effect on the dependent variable.

Dependent Variable

The variable that is observed and measured in response to changes in the independent variable.

X-axis

The horizontal axis in a Cartesian coordinate system where the independent variable is plotted.

Y-axis

The vertical axis in a Cartesian coordinate system where the dependent variable is plotted.

Wafting

The technique of gently waving fumes towards oneself to avoid direct inhalation from a test tube.