Unit 1 Study Guide: Lab Safety, Scientific Method & Variables

Lab Safety: Chemicals

Always treat every chemical in the laboratory as if it could be hazardous, even if it looks harmless.

Lab Safety: Broken Glass

Never pick up with bare hands; immediately inform your teacher and use a broom or dustpan.

Lab Safety: Hair

Long hair must be tied back or kept completely out of the way to prevent fire and contamination hazards.

Lab Safety: Food & Drink

Never eat or drink at your lab station, and wait for teacher instructions before starting.

Scientific Observation

Information gathered directly through senses or tools, stating direct facts without interpretation.

Scientific Inference

An explanation, logical conclusion, or interpretation based on prior observations.

Quantitative Data

Measurable numerical data recorded with units that can be graphed and averaged (e.g., 14.2 cm).

Qualitative Data

Descriptive data regarding qualities such as color, texture, shape, or behavior.

Scientific Method Step 3: Hypothesis

Created using the format: If [IV], then [DV], because [scientific reasoning].

Independent Variable (IV)

The factor deliberately changed or tested; plotted on the horizontal X-axis.

Dependent Variable (DV)

The factor being measured that changes in response; plotted on the vertical Y-axis.

Controlled Variables

Factors kept identical across all test groups to ensure valid cause-and-effect results.

Variable Identification Statement

Use the statement: '[Independent Variable] affects [Dependent Variable].'