Scientific Investigation Vocabulary

Vocabulary terms and definitions related to scientific methods, measurement units, and experimental variables as outlined in the study notes.

meter

the basic unit of length in the metric system

liter

The basic unit of liquid volume in the metric system; abbreviated $\text{L}$

weight

A measure of the force of gravity on an object

meniscus

The curved upper surface of a liquid in a tube

mass

A measure of the amount of matter in an object

constants

the conditions that do not change during an experiment

length

The distance between two points

hypothesis

A proposed, scientifically testable explanation for an observed phenomenon.

independent variable

The variable that is varied or manipulated by the researcher.

dependent variable

The measurable effect, outcome, or response in which the researcher is interested.

theory

An idea with a wide range of data and evidence to support it.

experimental group

the group that is changed in the experiment

control group

the group that does not receive the independent variable

graduated cylinder

a tall, narrow container with a volume scale used to measure liquids

volume

The amount of space an object or substance takes up. Liquid volume is measured in liters, the volume of a solid can be measured by lxwxh or the volume displacement method.

metric system

a universal system of measurement based on the number $10$

gram

The basic unit of mass in the metric system; abbreviated $\text{g}$

scientific investigation

a plan for asking questions and testing possible answers when studying the natural world

conclusion

determining whether or not the data supports the hypothesis

triple beam balance

A tool used to measure mass.