Scientific Method and Variables

The video tutorial discusses the importance of variables, constraints, and criteria in scientific and engineering investigations. It explains the different types of variables used in scientific experiments, such as controlled, independent, and dependent variables, using Francisco Redi's experiment as an example. The tutorial also covers the role of criteria and constraints in the engineering design process, illustrated through a bike tune-up project.

Why do scientists and engineers need to use variables, constraints, and criteria?

• To avoid using the scientific method

• To make their work more complicated

• To ensure their solutions are well-specified

• To confuse their peers

In the scientific method, what is primarily used?

• Criteria

• Hypotheses

• Constraints

• Variables

What is a controlled variable?

• A variable that is kept the same

• A variable that is measured

• A variable that is ignored

• A variable that is changed on purpose

What is the dependent variable in an experiment?

• The variable that is kept the same

• The variable that is changed on purpose

• The variable that is measured

• The variable that is ignored

What was the independent variable in Francisco Redi's experiment?

• The temperature of the room

• The type of lid on the jars

• The size of the jars

• The type of meat used

What did Francisco Redi aim to disprove with his experiment?

• The theory of evolution

• The theory of gravity

• The theory of spontaneous generation

• The theory of relativity

What is a criterion in the engineering design process?

• A limitation

• A requirement

• A hypothesis

• A variable

What is a constraint in the engineering design process?

• A limitation

• A variable

• A hypothesis

• A requirement

In the bike tune-up project, what was one of the criteria?

• To use more tools

• To have a heavier bike

• To shift gears better

• To have more noise

What should be included in the documentation packet for a scientific method project?

• Only the controlled variables

• All variables: independent, controlled, and dependent

• Only the dependent variable

• Only the independent variable