Scientific Methodology and Inquiry Skills

Comprehensive vocabulary flashcards covering scientific methodology, variables, measurement quality, error types, graphing standards, and mathematical conversions used in science inquiry.

Scientific Method

A methodology consisting of steps: 1. Make an observation, 2. Ask a question, 3. Test hypothesis and gather data, 4. Examine test results and form a conclusion, 5. Report findings.

Independent variable (IV)

The variable that is changed or manipulated in an experiment; it should always be stated with its units in brackets.

Dependent variable (DV)

The variable that is measured or tested for changes; it should always be stated with its units in brackets.

Control variable (CV)

The variables that are kept constant throughout an experiment to ensure the test is valid.

Amount

A non-specific term that should never be used in science; instead, use specific terms like volume, concentration, mass, or number.

Validity

The extent to which an experiment measures what it is supposed to measure, maintained by controlling variables.

Hypothesis

A testable statement, based on observation, that conveys the likely effect of the independent variable on a dependent variable, often using "If… then…".

Prediction

An expected outcome where the intention may not specifically be to test a relationship.

Inference

A conclusion drawn from evidence and reasoning.

Accuracy

How close a measurement or result is to the true value.

Reliability

The consistency of results when the experiment is repeated.

Repeatable

The ability of the same investigator to get the same results by repeating the experiment with the same method.

Reproducible

The ability of someone else to follow a method and achieve the same or similar result.

Random Error

Unavoidable errors that vary unpredictably from one measurement to another due to chance, typically clustering around the true value.

Systematic Error

Errors that are off by a consistent amount in a consistent direction, often caused by incorrectly calibrated equipment.

Bias

A systematic error resulting from any trend or deviation from the truth in data collection or analysis, often based on the individual conducting the experiment.

DTAIL

An acronym for graphing: Data (covers $>50\%$), Title (relevant), Axis (labeled and correct sides), Interval (consistent), Label Units & Line.

Deci

A prefix meaning $1 \times 10^{-1}$ or $0.1$.

Centi

A prefix meaning $1 \times 10^{-2}$ or $0.01$.

Milli

A prefix meaning $1 \times 10^{-3}$ or $0.001$.

Micro

A prefix meaning $1 \times 10^{-6}$ or $0.000\,001$.

Nano

A prefix meaning $1 \times 10^{-9}$ or $0.000\,000\,001$.

Pico

A prefix meaning $1 \times 10^{-12}$.

Kilo

A prefix meaning $1 \times 10^3$ or $1\,000$.

Mega

A prefix meaning $1 \times 10^6$ or $1\,000\,000$.

$dm^3$ to $cm^3$ Conversion

Multiply the volume in $dm^3$ by $1000$ to get the volume in $cm^3$ ($1\,dm^3 = 1000\,cm^3$).

$mm$ to $\mu m$ Conversion

Multiply the value in $mm$ by $1000$ to get the value in micrometers ($1\,mm = 1000\,\mu m$).

Standard Form

A way to display large or small numbers by moving the decimal point; positive powers move right (e.g., $2 \times 10^3 = 2000$) and negative powers move left (e.g., $2 \times 10^{-3} = 0.002$).

Evaluate Questions

Scientific questions requiring the consideration of good points (advantages), bad points (disadvantages), and a logical conclusion based on evidence.