Introduction to Science and Experimental Design

Flashcards covering the fundamentals of the nature of science, experimental design variables, and scientific notation rules.

Independent variable

The factor that is being purposefully changed or tested in an experiment; also referred to as the "cause."

Dependent variable

The factor that is being measured as a response in an experiment; the data collected; also referred to as the "effect."

Hypothesis

A testable prediction that attempts to answer a question, often written in the format: If… (IV), then… (DV), because…

Scientific Notation

A technique used to rewrite very large or very small numbers into a format that is easier to use, following the format of digits with a decimal point after the first digit, followed by $\times 10$ to a power.

Positive Exponent (Scientific Notation)

The result of moving the decimal point when starting with a large number ($> 1$).

Negative Exponent (Scientific Notation)

The result of moving the decimal point when starting with a small number ($< 1$).

Observation

Objective information gathered based strictly on the senses.

Inference

A subjective interpretation or conclusion based on perceptions rather than direct sensory evidence.

Qualitative data

Information or data based on qualities or characteristics.

Quantitative data

Information or data based on quantities, including numbers and measurements.

Law

A description of how things happen in nature, such as Newton's laws of motion.

Theory

An explanation, based on evidence, of why things happen in nature, such as Evolutionary theory.

Purpose

A clearly stated question that defines the objective for conducting an investigation.

Research

The process of gathering information to see what others have already studied regarding a specific question.

Conclusion

A summary of findings (CER) that includes a statement of whether the data supports the hypothesis, avoiding terms like "proven" or "incorrect."