Section 1 - Scientific Investigation

Front

What is a hypothesis?

Back

A tentative and testable explanation for an observation, often framed as an 'IF..THEN' statement.

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What is a scientific law?

Back

A precise statement or formula based on facts, such as the law of gravity or E=mc^2.

Front

What are constants in an experiment?

Back

Factors that remain unchanged throughout the experiment, such as the number of plant seedlings, water, and number of daylight hours.

Front

What are possible errors in an experiment?

Back

Errors can include too many variables changing, no control group, and not enough trials/data.

Front

What is the independent variable?

Back

The variable that is changed or controlled in an experiment to test its effects, such as the temperature at which plants are grown.

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What is a dependent variable?

Back

The variable that is measured or observed in an experiment, which is affected by the independent variable.

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What is an inference?

Back

A conclusion drawn from observations or evidence, not directly observed.

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What is a scientific theory?

Back

A well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world, based on a body of evidence.

Front

What is the purpose of a control group?

Back

To provide a baseline for comparison against the experimental group, helping to isolate the effects of the independent variable.

Front

What is the scientific method?

Back

A systematic process for investigating phenomena, acquiring new knowledge, or correcting and integrating previous knowledge.