Laboratory Safety and Scientific Methods

This set of flashcards is designed to help students review key concepts and vocabulary related to laboratory safety, scientific methods, and environmental sustainability.

Laboratory Safety Rules

Guidelines to ensure safety in the laboratory, including proper attire and emergency procedures.

Proper Laboratory Attire

Includes closed-toe shoes, long pants, a shirt with sleeves, and hair tied back.

Eating and Drinking Guidelines

Never allowed in the lab to prevent contamination.

Emergency Equipment

Includes eyewash stations, safety showers, fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and first aid kits.

Biohazard Waste Disposal

Place in designated biohazard containers; do not dispose in regular trash or sinks unless instructed.

SI Units

International System of Units; standard measurement system used in science.

Length SI Unit

Meter (m).

Mass SI Unit

Gram (g).

Volume SI Unit

Liter (L).

Temperature SI Unit

Celsius (°C).

Metric Conversion for Length

100 centimeters (cm) equals 1 meter (m).

Metric Conversion for Mass

1000 grams (g) equals 1 kilogram (kg).

Metric Conversion for Volume

1000 milliliters (mL) equals 1 liter (L).

°F to °C Conversion Formula

°C=(°F−32)×5/9.

Mean or Average Calculation

Add all values together and divide by the total number of values.

Definition of Length

The distance between two points.

Basic Unit of Length

Meter (m).

Types of Linear Measurement

Includes length, width, distance, and diameter.

Instruments to Measure Length

Ruler, measuring tape, measuring wheel.

Definition of Mass

The amount of matter in an object.

Basic Unit of Mass

Gram (g).

Instruments to Measure Mass

Electronic balance and triple beam balance.

Definition of Volume

The amount of space an object or liquid occupies.

Basic Unit of Liquid Volume

Liter (L).

Instruments to Measure Volume

Graduated cylinder (most accurate), pipettes, beakers.

Definition of Meniscus

The curved surface of a liquid in a container.

How to Read the Meniscus

At eye level, from the bottom of the curve.

Definition of Temperature

Measures how hot or cold something is.

Instruments to Measure Temperature

Thermometer.

Definition of DBH (Diameter at Breast Height)

Diameter of a tree measured 4.5 feet above ground.

DBH Calculation Formula

DBH = Circumference ÷ π (3.142).

Definition of Accuracy

How close a measurement is to the true value.

Definition of Precision

How consistent repeated measurements are.

Distinction Between Accuracy and Precision

A measurement can be precise but not accurate.

Scientific Investigation Definition

A systematic process used to answer a question using observation, experimentation, and evidence.

Steps of Scientific Investigation

Observation, Questions, Literature Review, Hypothesis, Prediction, Experiment, Conclusion.

Limitations of the Scientific Method

Cannot prove absolute truth, bias may influence results, ethical restrictions, some questions cannot be experimentally tested.

Hypothesis Definition

An educated, testable explanation.

Prediction Definition

If (independent variable), then (dependent variable).

Experimental Design Factors

Clear variables, control group, replication, adequate sample size, controlled conditions.

Types of Variables

Independent, Dependent, controlled variables.

Independent Variable

What you change in an experiment.

Dependent Variable

What you measure in an experiment.

Controlled Variables

What stays constant in an experiment.

Continuous Variables

Can include decimals (e.g., temperature).

Discrete Variables

Whole numbers only (e.g., number of plants).

Experimental Group

Receives treatment in an experiment.

Control Group

Does not receive treatment in an experiment.

Replication in Experiments

Repeating the experiment multiple times.

Sample Size

The number of subjects tested in an experiment.

Graph Presentation Types

Line graph, histogram, bar graphs.

Line Graph Function

Shows change over time.

Bar Graph Function

Compares categories.

Histogram Function

Shows frequency distribution.

Reasonable Conclusions Based on Data

Compare results to hypotheses and determine whether data supports or rejects it.

LEED Certification Definition

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification, obtained by earning points for sustainable practices.

Energy Efficiency Features in Buildings

Energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, renewable energy sources.

Sustainability Definition

Meeting current needs without compromising future generations.

Potential Benefits of Using Bioplastics

Reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower carbon emissions, some are biodegradable.

Properties of Plastics

Lightweight, durable, flexible, resistant to water and chemicals.

Leachate Definition

Contaminated liquid formed when water passes through waste.

Impact of Plastic in Oceans on Marine Life

Animals may ingest plastic, become entangled, or suffer chemical exposure.