Unit 1 Vocabulary

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Observation

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Information obtained through the senses.

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Physical science

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The study of matter and energy.

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Scientific method

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A logical, systematic approach to the solution of a scientific problem.

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Hypothesis

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A prediction that can be tested by research and experiments.

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Experiment

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A scientific procedure undertaken to make a discovery, test a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact.

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Dependent variable

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What you measure in the experiment and what is affected during the experiment.

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Independent variable

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The experimental factor that is manipulated; the variable whose effect is being studied; what you change on purpose.

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Inference

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A logical conclusion or interpretation drawn from evidence, observations, and prior knowledge, rather than a direct observation itself.

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Controlled variable

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Factor in an experiment that a scientist purposely keeps the same.

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Control group

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In an experiment, the group not exposed to the treatment; contrasts with the experimental group and serves as a comparison for evaluating the effect of the treatment.