Scientific Method Flashcard

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What is a hypothesis in a lab?

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An if/then/because statement that predicts the outcome of an experiment.

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What is the control in a lab experiment?

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The standard to which comparisons are made in an experiment; it is what you compare the independent variable to.

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In an experiment, what is the independent variable?

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The factor that is manipulated or changed in an experiment.

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What is a constant in a lab experiment?

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Conditions or variables that stay the same throughout the experiment.

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What is a dependent variable?

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The factor that is measured or observed in an experiment; it responds to the independent variable.

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What is the purpose of a control group?

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To provide a baseline for comparison against the experimental group.

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What does it mean to manipulate a variable?

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To change or alter a variable in an experiment to observe the effects.

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What is an experimental group?

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The group in an experiment that receives the treatment or the independent variable.

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Why is it important to have constants in an experiment?

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To ensure that the results are due to the independent variable and not other factors.

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What is the scientific method?

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