Science Booklet 1

Safety in the laboratory

____________ refers to the set of guidelines and procedures designed to ensure the safety of individuals working in a laboratory environment. It includes measures such as proper handling of chemicals, use of personal protective equipment, and following established protocols for experiments and equipment use.

Fair test

An experiment where only one variable is changed, while all other variables are kept constant. This ensures that any observed effects are due to the manipulated variable and not any other factors.

Hypothesis

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

Independent variable

The factor being changed or manipulated in an experiment. It is the variable that is hypothesized to cause an effect on the dependent variable.

Dependent variable

The variable that is being measured or tested in an experiment, and its value depends on the independent variable. It is also known as the outcome variable and is affected by the changes made to the independent variable.

Control variable

A control variable is a factor that is kept constant in an experiment to prevent it from influencing the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

Reliable experiment

Definition: An experiment is considered reliable when it produces consistent results when repeated under the same conditions, indicating that the findings are accurate and trustworthy.

What is the purpose of a control group?

A control group is used in experiments to provide a baseline for comparison. It is a group that is not exposed to the independent variable being tested, allowing researchers to determine if any changes observed in the experimental group are due to the independent variable or other factors.

Subjective observation

Observation based on personal interpretation or opinion rather than measurable or objective facts.

Ruler

A straight edge tool used for measuring length or distance in inches, centimeters, or millimeters. It is typically made of plastic, wood, or metal and is marked with units of measurement.

Thermometer

Device used to measure temperature, typically consisting of a glass or plastic tube containing a liquid such as mercury or alcohol, which expands and contracts as it is heated or cooled.

Weighing scales

Device used to measure the weight or mass of an object or substance.

Measuring cylinder

A laboratory tool used to accurately measure the volume of liquids. It has a narrow cylindrical shape with markings on its side indicating the volume.

Qualitative data

Type of data that is non-numerical and descriptive in nature. It is usually collected through observations, interviews, and focus groups. Is used to gain insights into people's attitudes, behaviors, and experiences. It is analyzed through coding and categorizing themes and patterns.

Quantitative data

Data that can be measured or expressed numerically. It deals with quantities and is often analyzed using statistical methods. Examples include height, weight, age, and test scores.

Observation

A method of gathering information through the use of senses, such as sight, sound, and touch, to gather data about a particular phenomenon or event. It involves careful and systematic examination, recording, and interpretation of what is being observed, often with the use of tools and instruments.

Inference

Drawing a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning, rather than explicit statements.

Prediction

Definition: An educated guess about what is likely to happen in the future based on available information and past experiences.

Example: Weather forecasters use data from weather patterns and past experiences to predict the likelihood of rain or sunshine for the upcoming week.

Lab rule 1

Do not eat or drink anything in the lab

Lab rule 2

Only turn on gas and water taps when told to

Lab rule 3

Listen carefully, ask if you do not uderstand

Lab rule 4

Wear safety glasses correctly

Lab rule 5

If you break or spill anything, tell your science teacher immediately

Lab rule 6

If you burn yourself, or get chemicals in your eyes, flood with water as quickly as possible

Lab rule 7

If you make a mess clean it up

Lab rule 8

Listen carefully to the teachers instructions on where to dispose of waste. Put waste liquids into the sink and flush away with plenty of water. or put into a waste container if told. Solids are never to be disposed of in the sink, the must be separated off the liquid waste and placed in the bin.

Bunsen burner

A laboratory tool that produces a single open gas flame used for heating, sterilizing, and combustion reactions.

Electronic balance

A device used to measure the mass of an object with high precision. It operates on the principle of electromagnetic force compensation.

Tongs

Utensil used for gripping and lifting objects, typically in the kitchen or during BBQs. Composed of two long arms with flat, often ridged, ends that are joined at one end by a pivot.

Dropper

A tool used to transfer small amounts of liquid from one container to another with precision. It consists of a tube with a rubber bulb on one end and a tapered tip on the other. The bulb is squeezed to create suction, and then released to dispense the liquid.

Safety glasses

Glasses worn in the lab to protect your eyes

Test tube

Small cylindrical glass or plastic container used for holding, mixing, and heating small quantities of liquid chemicals in a laboratory setting.

Beaker

A cylindrical glass container with a flat bottom and a small spout used for mixing, heating, and measuring liquids in chemistry experiments.

Forceps

A handheld instrument used in medical procedures to grasp, hold, or manipulate tissues or objects. It has two blades and is available in various shapes and sizes.

Bosshead and clamp

A laboratory tool used to hold and secure other equipment in place, such as test tubes, burettes, and flasks. The bosshead is a metal rod that attaches to a stand, while the clamp holds the equipment and can be adjusted to fit different sizes.

Test tube brush

A tool used to clean test tubes. It has a long, thin handle with bristles at the end that can reach the bottom of the tube.

Evaporating basin

A container used to evaporate liquids, leaving behind solid residue. It has a flat bottom and sides that slope at an angle, allowing for easy stirring. It is made of materials such as glass, porcelain, or stainless steel and can withstand high temperatures.

Watchglass

Flat, circular piece of glass used in chemistry labs to cover beakers or flasks. It prevents splashes, evaporation, and contamination of the contents.

Conical flask

A container with a narrow neck and a wide, flat base used for mixing and heating liquids. It is commonly used in chemistry experiments to hold and measure liquids.

Wire gauze

\
Used in laboratories to support containers during heating

Made up of a mesh of thin metal wires

Helps to distribute heat evenly and prevent glassware from breaking

Retort ring

A laboratory apparatus used to support a round-bottomed flask or other glassware during heating. It is made of metal and has a conical shape with a central hole, which allows it to be attached to a stand.

Retort stand

A laboratory equipment used to hold and support flasks and other glassware during experiments. It consists of a heavy base, a vertical rod, and clamps to hold the glassware in place.

Scalpel

A surgical tool used for incisions and dissections. It consists of a small, sharp blade attached to a handle.

Mortar and Pestle

Tool used in laboratory to grind and mix small quantities of solids into powders or pastes.

Filter funnel

Device used to separate solids from liquids by pouring the mixture through a filter paper placed in a funnel.

Test tube holder

A device used to hold test tubes securely in place during experiments or when heating them. It helps prevent spills and accidents, and is usually made of metal or plastic with spring-loaded jaws to grip the tube.

Test tube rack

A tool used to hold and organize test tubes during experiments. It can be made of plastic or metal and comes in different sizes to accommodate various numbers of test tubes. It is an essential tool in a laboratory for safe and efficient handling of test tubes.

What are three safety rules to follow when using the Bunsen burner?

1. Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from sparks and flames.
2. Have your hair tied up
3. Don’t leave unattended

What are the parts of a Bunsen burner?

The parts of a Bunsen burner are the base, gas inlet, gas control valve, barrel, air vent, and flame adjustment valve.

Method

A systematic approach used to conduct research or solve problems. It involves a series of steps and procedures that are followed in a logical sequence to achieve a desired outcome. The method can vary depending on the field of study or problem being addressed.

Measurement

The process of assigning numerical values to physical quantities using a standard unit of measurement. It involves comparing the quantity being measured to a known quantity of the same type, which is defined as a standard. The result is expressed as a numerical value with a unit of measurement.