Scientific Method and Key Terminology Lecture

30 question-and-answer flashcards covering foundational scientific terms and concepts from the lecture.

Qualitative data

Qualitative data is descriptive and gathered using the senses without numerical measurement. For example, observing the color changes in a chemical reaction.

Quantitative data

Quantitative data is measurable and expressed with numbers. For example, measuring the temperature of a solution in degrees Celsius.

Data

Data refers to information collected during experiments, including all observations and measurements recorded.

Observation

Observation is the act of using senses or tools to notice details during an experiment. For instance, noting that a plant's leaves are turning yellow.

Inference

An inference is a conclusion drawn from observations. For example, observing yellow leaves (observation) and inferring the plant lacks nutrients (inference).

Displacement

Displacement describes the change in position of an object. For example, a car driving 10 \, \text{km} east from its starting point has a displacement of 10 \, \text{km} east.

Country and Place

In Indigenous contexts, Country and Place refers to the understanding of land and connection to specific locations. This involves cultural, spiritual, and historical links to ancestral lands.

Natural Environment

The Natural Environment is the physical world that is not made or altered by humans. Examples include forests, oceans, and deserts.

Rock Strata

Rock Strata describes layers of sedimentary rock that show geological time. Geologists study these layers to understand Earth's past climate and life forms.

Gravity

Gravity is the force that pulls objects toward each other and explains why apples fall from trees. This force is fundamental to planetary orbits and the structure of the universe.

Acid

An Acid is a substance that has a pH less than 7. For example, stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) helps digest food.

Base

A Base is a substance that has a pH greater than 7. Common bases include baking soda and ammonia, used in cleaning products.

Geological Succession

Geological Succession refers to the sequence of rock layers representing Earth's history. It allows scientists to date events and infer changes in environment over millions of years.

pH scale

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14 and measures acidity or alkalinity. It is used in various fields, from agriculture to medicine, to determine the acidity of soil, water, or bodily fluids.

Variables

In an experiment, variables are the factors that can change. Identifying variables is crucial for designing a controlled and informative experiment.

Independent Variable

The Independent Variable is the variable deliberately changed by the experimenter. For example, in a plant growth experiment, the amount of water given to each plant would be the independent variable.

Dependent Variable

The Dependent Variable is the variable measured in response to changes in the independent variable. Continuing the plant experiment, the height of the plant or the number of leaves would be the dependent variable.

Hypothesis

A Hypothesis is a testable prediction based on prior knowledge. An example hypothesis is, 'If a plant receives more sunlight, then it will grow taller.'

Controlled Variables

Controlled Variables are factors kept the same in an experiment to ensure a fair test. In the plant experiment, controlled variables would include the type of soil, pot size, and temperature.

Method

A Method refers to the step-by-step procedure for conducting an experiment. A clear method ensures an experiment can be replicated by others.

Primary Data

Primary Data is data you collect yourself during an experiment. Conducting a survey or performing a new chemical reaction to record observations are ways to collect primary data.

Universe

The Universe encompasses all existing matter and space as a whole. Studying the universe helps us understand fundamental laws of physics and our place in the cosmos.

Digital Technologies

Digital Technologies are tools that use electronic systems to store or process data. Examples include computers, smartphones, and sensors used in scientific research.

Analogue Technologies

Analogue Technologies are tools that use continuous signals for measurement. For instance, a mercury thermometer provides a direct, continuous reading of temperature.

Tabulation

Tabulation describes organising data in rows and columns. This method helps in clearly presenting and analyzing numerical or categorical data.

Graphing

Graphing is the visual representation of data trends. Graphs make it easier to identify patterns, relationships, and outliers in datasets.

Visual Representations

Visual Representations refer to images or diagrams that show scientific ideas. These include diagrams of cellular structures or models of planetary systems, aiding in understanding complex concepts.

Digital Representations

Digital Representations refer to data displayed using technology, such as charts made with software. This encompasses dynamic charts, simulations, and interactive models created with software for analysis and communication.

Conclusion

A Conclusion is the final statement summarising experiment findings. A good conclusion states whether the hypothesis was supported and discusses implications or further research.

Phenomena

Phenomena describes observable events or processes in nature, like lightning or earthquakes. Studying phenomena like lightning or earthquakes helps scientists understand natural laws and predict future events.