Scientific Inquiry and Experimental Design

Vocabulary flashcards covering core scientific concepts including variables, graphing rules, types of observations, inferences, and branches of science.

Variable

Any characteristic or factor in an experiment that can be measured, manipulated, or controlled.

Independent Variable

The manipulated factor in an experiment that is deliberately changed or controlled by the scientist.

Dependent Variable

The responding factor or measurable outcome in an experiment that depends on changes made to the independent variable.

Controlled Variable

Also known as constants, these are all factors kept strictly constant during an experiment to guarantee a fair test.

DRY

An acronym used for graphing that stands for Dependent Variable, Responding Variable, and Y-axis (vertical line).

MIX

An acronym used for graphing that stands for Manipulated Variable, Independent Variable, and X-axis (horizontal line).

Observation

Fact-based information gathered directly through one or more of the five senses (sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste).

Qualitative Observation

A descriptive observation that describes qualities or characteristics experienced through the senses without using numbers.

Quantitative Observation

A measurable observation expressed with numbers, often made using measuring instruments such as rulers, balances, beakers, or thermometers.

Inference

An explanation or conclusion reached about an observation based on evidence and prior experiences.

Hypothesis

A proposed, testable statement or prediction explaining an observation or scientific question.

Data

Facts, statistics, or observations collected during an investigation or experiment for analysis.

Life Science

A branch of science that involves the scientific study of living organisms and life processes.

Physical Science

A branch of science that studies non-living systems, matter, and energy.

Earth Science

A branch of science that deals with the physical constitution of the Earth, its atmosphere, and surrounding space.