Methods of Science

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Physics Noun

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[fiz-iks]

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Physics

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A branch of science that involves the study of the physical world, including energy, matter, and how they are related.

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Example: A Newton's Cradle demonstrates fundamental physics principles like the conservation of energy and momentum, showing how force and motion are transferred through objects.

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Science Noun

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[sahy-uhns]

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Science

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A process based on inquiry that helps develop explanations about events in nature and the knowledge gained from this process.

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Example: This image shows a controlled experiment, a key method of science. By changing only one variable (light color), scientists can observe its specific effect on plant growth.

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Scientific Method Noun

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[sahy-uhn-tif-ik meth-uhd]

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Scientific Method

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A series of patterns or steps for investigation, including stating a problem, forming a hypothesis, testing, and drawing conclusions.

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Example: This diagram shows the scientific method as a step-by-step process, from asking a question to forming a conclusion, including feedback loops for revision.

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Hypothesis Noun

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[hahy-poth-uh-sis]

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Hypothesis

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A possible explanation for a problem using what you know and have observed, which can be tested through experimentation.

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Example: This image shows a lightbulb with a question mark inside, representing a hypothesis as a testable idea or a scientific question to be investigated.

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Experiment Noun

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[ik-sper-uh-muhnt]

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Experiment

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A controlled procedure designed to test the effect of one thing on another to validate or invalidate a hypothesis.

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Example: An experiment tests a hypothesis by changing one variable. Here, changing the light's position (the variable) causes the plant to bend, showing its effect.

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Control Noun

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[kuhn-trohl]

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Control

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A standard for comparison in an experiment, used to ensure that the results are due to the variable being tested.

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Example: This image shows a science experiment with two groups of plants. The 'Control Group' does not receive water, serving as a baseline for comparison.

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Bias Noun

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[bahy-uhs]

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Bias

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A factor that occurs when a scientist's expectations affect how the results of an experiment are analyzed or conclusions made.

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Example: This image shows that bias in science can happen when subjective opinions (like 'disrespect') are used instead of objective, measurable observations (like 'fighting').

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Peer Review Noun

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[peer ri-vyoo]

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Peer Review

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A process by which the procedures and results of an experiment are evaluated by other scientists in the same field.

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Example: This flowchart shows the peer review process where experts (peers) are selected to give feedback on a scientific work, which can then be accepted, rejected, or sent back for revisions.

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Model Noun

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[mod-l]

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Model

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A representation of an idea, event, structure, or object that helps people better understand it, especially complex concepts.

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Example: This diagram is a scientific model of a sodium atom, showing a simplified representation of its nucleus and the arrangement of electrons in shells.

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Atom Noun

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[at-uhm]

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Atom

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The fundamental unit of matter, composed of a nucleus with protons and neutrons, surrounded by a cloud of electrons.

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Example: This diagram shows an atom's basic structure: a central nucleus with protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons orbiting in distinct electron shells.