Physics and Experimentation Overview

A set of flashcards designed to reinforce key concepts and vocabulary related to the methodology of scientific experiments, basic principles of physics, and electrical circuits.

Independent Variable (i.v.)

The variable that is intentionally changed in an experiment to observe its effect.

Dependent Variable (d.v.)

The variable that is measured or observed in an experiment as a result of changes made to the independent variable.

Control Variables (c.v.)

Variables that are kept constant in an experiment to ensure that the test is fair.

Fair Test

An experiment where only the independent variable is changed, keeping all other conditions the same.

Scientific Method

A systematic approach to investigation that includes observation, hypothesis formulation, experimentation, and analysis of results.

Newton’s Laws

Laws that describe the behavior of objects in motion, including principles of inertia and the relationship between force and motion.

Energy Transformation

The process of converting energy from one form to another, e.g., kinetic energy to thermal energy.

Ohm’s Law

The relationship between voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R) in an electrical circuit, expressed as V = I × R.

Electric Circuit

A complete pathway for current to flow, which must include a source of potential difference.

Potential Difference (Voltage)

The work done to move a unit charge from one point to another in an electric field, measured in volts (V).

Resistance

The opposition to the flow of electric current, measured in ohms (Ω). It can be influenced by the material, length, and cross-sectional area of the conductor.

Current (I)

The flow of electric charge in a circuit, measured in amperes (A).

Coulomb (C)

The unit of electric charge; one coulomb is defined as the amount of charge transported by a constant current of one ampere in one second.

Ammeter

An instrument used to measure electric current in a circuit, which is connected in series.

Voltmeter

An instrument used to measure potential difference (voltage) across two points in a circuit, which is connected in parallel.

Series Circuit

A circuit configuration where components are connected end-to-end, so the same current flows through each component.

Parallel Circuit

A circuit configuration where components are connected across common points, allowing current to split and flow through multiple paths.

What is a Hypothesis?

A proposed explanation or prediction that can be tested through experimentation.

What is an Experiment?

A procedure carried out to support, refute, or validate a hypothesis.

What are Results?

Data collected during an experiment, which can be analyzed to support or reject the hypothesis.

What is a Conclusion?

A summary of the findings from an experiment, which addresses the original hypothesis.

What is Peer Review?

The process where other experts evaluate a research study before it is published to ensure quality and validity.

What is the scientific method?

A systematic approach to investigation that includes observation, hypothesis formulation, experimentation, and analysis of results.

What are Newton's Laws?

Laws that describe the behavior of objects in motion, including principles of inertia and the relationship between force and motion.

What is energy transformation?

The process of converting energy from one form to another, e.g., kinetic energy to thermal energy.

What is Ohm's Law?

The relationship between voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R) in an electrical circuit, expressed as V = I × R.

What is a series circuit?

A circuit configuration where components are connected end-to-end, so the same current flows through each component.

What is a parallel circuit?

A circuit configuration where components are connected across common points, allowing current to split and flow through multiple paths.