Observing The Universe Word List

Accuracy

The extent to which measurements are considered to be close to the true value.

Analyse (scientifically)

To consider in detail for the purpose of finding meaning or relationships, and identifying patterns, similarities and differences.

Biology

The branch of science that deals with living organisms and their vital processes.

Causal

Two variables with a relationship which indicates that one event is the result of the occurrence of the other event.

Chemistry

The branch of science concerned with the substances of which matter is composed, the investigation of their properties and reactions, and the use of such reactions to form new substances.

Claim

An assertion that something is true.

Controlled variable

A variable that is kept constant (or changed in constant ways) during an investigation.

Data

Information that is collected, organised and analysed for various purposes.

Dependent variable

The factor in an experiment that changes in response to changes to the independent variable.

Error

The difference between an observed result and an expected or theoretical result.

Evidence

Valid and/or reliable data that can be used to support a particular theory, hypothesis, idea or conclusion.

Experimental control

The sample in an experiment to which all the other samples are compared.

Extrapolation

Predictions made using values that are outside the range of the original data.

First-hand data

Information or data which has been directly observed or measured.

Geology

The branch of science that deals with the earth's physical structure and substance, its history, and the processes that act on it.

Hypothesis

A supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.

Independent variable

The variable that is deliberately changed, often through a series of pre-set values.

Interpolation

Making predictions between known data values.

Investigate

Plan, inquire into and draw conclusions about.

Law

A statement that describes a relationship or phenomenon that does not change under the same conditions.

Model

A representation (mathematical, conceptual, or physical) that describes, clarifies, or predicts aspects of a system or idea.

Observation

To see, watch, perceive or notice using senses or tools.

Physical quantities

Characteristics that can be seen or measured.

Physics

The branch of science concerned with the nature and properties of matter and energy.

Precision

The extent to which repeated measurements of the same item are close to each other.

Prediction

A statement or estimate about what will happen in the future, based on evidence or experience.

Qualitative

Descriptive data that includes features or characteristics without using numbers.

Quantitative

Numerical data or values that can be measured.

Reliability

The extent to which repeated measurements yield similar results.

Risk assessment

The estimate of risk related to a known hazard in a defined situation.

Secondary sources

Information that has been collected and published by others.

SI

The International System of Units based on agreed standards (metre, second, gram).

Senses

Perceptions used to gather information - sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell.

Systematic observations

Observations made using valid scientific methods.

Theory

A formal explanation based on evidence, reviewed by the scientific community.

Transdisciplinary

The integration of different disciplines with science.

Validity

The extent to which processes and data measure what was intended.

Variable

A factor that can be changed, kept the same, or measured in an investigation.