Unit 1 - Introduction to Science

Observation

Receiving knowledge of the outside world through our senses or recording information using scientific tools.

Quantitative Observations

The depiction of obtained variables in terms of their quantity, focusing on numbers and measurable values.

Qualitative Observations

A subjective method of gathering information using sensory organs, describing using words without numbers.

Inference

A conclusion reached after an observation, representing what you think about what you have observed.

Bunsen Burner

A device used in a chemistry lab for heating substances.

Meniscus

The curved surface formed when measuring liquids, where the water clings to the edge of the container.

Independent variable

The variable that the scientist changes in an experiment to observe its effect on another variable.

Dependent variable

The variable that is expected to change when the independent variable is altered, observed or measured during an experiment.

Control

A parallel experiment with everything the same as the test setup except the variable, used to ensure results are due to the variable.

Fair test

A method to determine an answer to a problem without favoring any outcome, involving only one variable change.

Scientific Method

The process of observing, asking questions, and seeking answers through tests and experiments.

Aim

A single statement that describes the purpose of conducting an experiment.

Hypothesis

An educated guess based on prior knowledge, includes an explanation of the reasoning.

Methodology

Details of the experiment conducted and how it was carried out.

Results

What happened during the experiment and the outcomes observed.

Discussion

Interpretation of what the results mean in relation to the experiment.

Conclusion

Restatement of the experiment's purpose, major findings, hypothesis support, errors, and future study suggestions.

Prediction

A statement of what will happen in the future based on certain conditions.

Beaker 

Container for mixing or heating liquids and other substances 

Bosshead 

Holds the clamp to a retort stand 

Yellow Safety Flame

When the Bunsen Burner is being lit or is not being used for heating. When the air hole position is closed.

Clamp 

Holds objects at the required height on a retort stand 

Conical flask 

Container for mixing substances or collecting filtered substances

Evaporating dish 

Container for heating small amounts of substances over a Bunsen Burner

Filter funnel

Used with filter paper to filter substances

Gauze mat 

Supports a container over a Bunsen Burner while it is heated 

Heatproof mat 

Protects benches from damage 

Measuring cylinder 

Used to measure the volume of a liquid accurately 

Retort stand 

Used with a clamp and bosshead to hold equipment at the required height

Safety glasses 

Protects eyes 

Spatula 

Used to pick up small amounts of solid substances 

Stirring rod 

Used to stir mixtures 

Test tube 

Container for holding, heating or mixing small amounts of substances

Test-tube holder 

Holds a test tube while it is being heated

Test-tube rack 

Holds test tubes upright 

Thermometer 

Measures temperature 

Tongs 

Used to hold small objects while they are heated or to pick up hot glassware 

Tripod 

Supports a gauze mat over a Bunsen burner 

Watchglass 

Holds small quantities of solids 

Harmful/Irritant

Radioactive

Flammable

Biohazard

Explosive

Toxic

Wear safety glasses

Corrosive