Scientific Method

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A testable prediction or educated guess based on observations, often written in an "If... then..." format. It's a proposed explanation for a phenomenon.

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hypothesis

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A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, based on a body of facts that have been repeatedly confirmed through observation and experiment.

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Scientific theory

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A statement based on repeated experimental observations that describes some aspect of the universe. A scientific law always applies under the same conditions, and it doesn't explain why something happens, just that it does.

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Scientific law

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The factor that is intentionally changed or manipulated by the scientist in an experiment. It's the "cause" in a cause-and-effect relationship.

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independent variable

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The factor that is being measured or observed in an experiment. It's the "effect" that may change in response to the independent variable.

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Dependent variable

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Also known as a constant, this is a factor that is kept the same throughout an experiment to ensure that only the independent variable is affecting the dependent variable.

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Control variable

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The group in an experiment that does not receive the experimental treatment. It serves as a baseline for comparison.

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Control group

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Pieces of information collected during an experiment. This can be qualitative (descriptive) or quantitative (numerical).

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Data

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The process of gathering information about a natural phenomenon. Observations can be made directly with the senses or indirectly with instruments.

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Observation

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A logical interpretation or conclusion based on prior knowledge and observations. It's an educated guess or a deduction you make from the evidence.

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Inference