Scientific Method and Investigation

Vocabulary flashcards covering the definitions and key figures involved in the scientific method and scientific investigation process.

Scientific Investigation

A plan for asking questions and testing possible answers.

Scientific Method

Basic methods of gaining knowledge common to all of science generally following a series of steps that may be modified for individual investigations.

Observation

Anything detected with the senses, which include sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste.

Galileo Galilei

The individual referred to as The Father of Modern Science for his contribution to the systematic development and description of a scientific method.

Hypothesis

A possible answer to a scientific question that is based on scientific knowledge, is logical, and is falsifiable.

Falsifiable

A characteristic of a scientific hypothesis meaning it must be possible to make observations that would disprove it if it really is false.

Prediction

A statement that tells what will happen under certain conditions, often expressed in the form: If A occurs, then B will happen.

Evidence

Any type of data that may either agree or disagree with a prediction, thereby supporting or disproving a hypothesis.

Communicating Results

The last step in a scientific investigation that allows others to test the hypothesis and point out possible errors.

Dan Costa, Ph.D.

A professor of Biology at the University of California, Santa Cruz, who has studied marine life for well over $40$ years using electronic tags.