Unit 4 Chemistry AOS 3: Scientific Investigation Flashcards

This flashcard set covers the vocabulary and key concepts of scientific investigation as outlined in the Unit 4 Chemistry AOS 3 transcript, including variables, error types, measurement quality, and data types.

Accuracy

How close measured values are to their true value.

Precision

How close measured values are to each other, primarily impacted by random errors.

Systematic Error

Error in measurement by the same amount in the same direction every time, causing data to be less accurate but potentially precise.

Random Error

Unpredictable variations in the measurement process that result in a spread of readings, affecting both precision and accuracy.

Validity

Whether the experiment and its components, including the results, address the aim and hypothesis of the research.

Repeatability

The closeness of the agreement between the results of successive measurements of the same quantity, carried out under the same conditions of measurement.

Reproducibility

The closeness of the agreement between the results of measurements of the same quantity, carried out under changed conditions of measurement.

Resolution

The smallest change in the quantity being measured that causes a perceptible change in the value indicated on the measuring instrument.

Independent Variable

The one factor in an experiment that is specifically changed or manipulated.

Dependent Variable

The variable that is observed or measured to see how it changes in response to the independent variable.

Controlled Variable

Factors that are kept constant and unchanging throughout the entire experiment to ensure a fair test.

Mistake

Sometimes called personal errors; these should not be included in reporting and analysis, and the experiment should instead be repeated correctly.

Outlier

A data point or observation that differs significantly from other data points or observations in a set.

Qualitative Data

Non-numerical, descriptive data collected based on observations taken during an experiment.

Quantitative Data

Numerical data collected during experiments that identifies the amount of a substance present.

Primary Data

Original data collected firsthand by researchers.

Secondary Data

Data that has been previously collected and is now accessible to different researchers.

Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

A document that outlines the health and safety information associated with different materials and chemicals.

Hypothesis

A prediction that describes what is expected to happen by proposing how the independent variable will affect the dependent variable.

Aim

A statement that describes the purpose of the research investigation.

Peer Review

The process where developments in scientific knowledge are checked by other scientists to ensure correct processes were followed and conclusions are valid.

Bias

The difference between the average of a large set of measurements and the true value.

Uncertainty

The level of doubt regarding the data obtained, considered from a qualitative perspective in VCE Chemistry.

Method

Specific steps and techniques required to collect, visualise, and analyse experimental data in a scientific investigation.

Methodology

Different ways in which the planning and conducting of scientific investigations can be carried out.

Significant Figures

The number of digits required to express a number to a certain level of accuracy.