Introduction to Science and Earth Science Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering introductory scientific concepts, types of observations, scientific models, laws, theories, and the branches of Earth Science.

Science

The system of observations and experiments used to gain knowledge about how the universe works.

Observation

Facts we can all observe with our five senses; based on facts.

Inference

An interpretation of what we observe; based on prior knowledge and experience.

Quantitative

Observations or data that are measured or countable, such as 773 meters long, 4 marbles, 60 Kilograms, or 35 degrees Celsius.

Qualitative

Observations that are described rather than measured, such as red flowers, smells like fresh baked cookies, or tastes bitter.

Scientific Model

A physical and/or mathematical and/or conceptual representation of a system of ideas, events, or processes.

Prediction

A forecast of what will happen in the future based on evidence or past experiences.

Hypothesis

A prediction made by scientists about what will happen in their experiments.

Law

Generalized observations, often mathematical, about a relationship between two or more things in the natural world that do not explain "how" or "why" (such as the Law of universal gravitation or Law of conservation of mass).

Theory

A carefully thought-out explanation for observations of the natural world that has been constructed using the scientific method, and which brings together many facts and hypotheses (such as The theory of evolution or The Big Bang Theory).

Astronomy

The branch of Earth science studying celestial objects, space, and the physical universe as a whole.

Geology

The study of the structure, evolution, and dynamics of the earth and its natural mineral and energy resources.

Oceanography

The study of all aspects of the ocean, from marine life and ecosystems to currents and waves, the movement of sediments, and sea floor geology.

Meteorology

The science dealing with the atmosphere and its phenomena, including both weather and climate.