Unit 1: Introduction to Physical Science

eyewash station

used to rinse the eyes when they have contacted a chemical

safety shower

used to rinse the skin or clothing of a hazardous chemical

fume hood

Type of hood or barrier used in the laboratory to prevent a person from exposure to hazardous fumes from chemicals

goggles and apron

used to protect your eyes and clothing from damage in the lab

metric ruler/meter stick

tool used to measure length

meter (m)

The base unit of length in the metric system (also cm, mm, km)

triple beam balance

tool used to measure mass

gram (g)

Basic unit for mass in the metric system (also kg, mg)

Beaker

An open cylindrical container with a pouring lip; used for mixing larger amounts of substances

Erlenmeyer flask

used to hold liquids, has narrow neck to prevent splashes

graduated cylinder

tool used to measure the volume of a liquid

liter (L)

Basic unit of volume in the metric system (also mL)

Scientific Method

A logical, systematic approach using experiments and research to answer scientific questions

independent variable

The experimental factor or condition that you are changing on purpose during an experiment

dependent variable

the effect or outcome you are observing during an experiment

constant

something that you keep the same during an experiment

control group

in an experiment, the group not exposed to the treatment; serves as a comparison for evaluating the effect of the treatment

experimental group

in an experiment, the group exposed to the treatment, that is, to one version of the independent variable

Engineering Design Process

the steps that engineers use to design something to solve a problem

prototype

A full-scale working model used to test a design concept by making actual observations and necessary adjustments.