earth science 9/12/25

Model Limitations

prevent a model from fully replicating reality

Qualitative

information describing characteristics or qualities without numerical measurement

hypothesis

a testable statement predicting a relationship between variables

analyze

to examine data in order to identify relationships, patterns, and meaning

evidence

verifiable data, measurements that are used to support a claim

Quantitative

info expressed with numerical measurments

Interpret

to make sense of data or results by explaining the meaning in the context of the question

Theory

a well explanation of natural phenomena built from repeated testing evidence

Claim

an evidence-based statement that answers a scientific question

Investigation

a structured method of answering a question by collecting and analyzing evidence through observation, or research

Empirical evidence

data obtained directly or indirectly through observation, measurement, or experiment

Phenomena

observable events that can be studied

Systems

an organized group of interactions to form a whole

Correlation

a relationship between 2 or more variables

Temporal Scale

The time over which processes or event occur

Spatial Scale

physical dimensions of a phenomenon

structure and function

the way something is built directly affects how it works

Stability and change

degree to which as system ramins constant

Energy and matter

movement of energy and cycling of matter within systems

feedback loops

outputs of a system influence its own operation

inputs/outputs

signals entering a system or results leaving it