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Nature of Science
Question | Answer |
---|---|
What is a dependent variable? | The dependent variable refers to what is being measured (the data collected during the experiment) Sometimes called the 'outcome variable'. |
What is an independent variable? | The independent variable (sometimes called the 'test variable') is what the scientist intentionally changes during the experiment. |
What is a control variable? | The control variable (think Control Freaks leave one group normal) refers to a group in the independent variable that is left NORMAL- acts as a baseline for the scientist. |
What are constants? | Constants are things in the experiment that STAY the SAME- this ensure that your results are accurate and valid. |
Why are experiments repeated many times by the same and then replicated other scientists? | The scientist repeats the experiment to confirm the results. Other scientists replicate the experiment and if the results are the same it confirms and validates the findings. |
When researching, what types of sources should be used? | Articles from reputable scientific organizations, journals and magazines. |
What does it mean to 'analyze data'? | Scientists analyze data to determine whether or not it supports the hypothesis that was made. |
What does it mean to 'collect data'? | Scientists collect/record data during their experiment/investigation. |
When a scientist is unsure the accuracy of his/her experiment, what should they do? | If errors are found or a scientist is unsure of their experiment's accuracy, they should repeat the experiment. |
If a scientist's results are replicable, what should be true about their measurements (data)? | When replicating an experiment the measurements should be extremely close, but not exactly the same, when obtained under identical conditions. |
What are some reasons that scientists use models? | When the objects they are studying are too small, too far are too dangerous, scientists can use model to help them understand/experiment. |
What is a systematic observation? | A systematic observation is an investigation that requires recognizing a pattern and observing something in its natural setting. |
What are some limitations of systematic observations? | Systematic observations do not allow for variables to be changed. |
What is a controlled experiment? | In a controlled observation specific measurements and data are collected to test the independent variable. |
When scientists get different results, what is the best approach they can take? | They need to discuss their results to determine why they are different. |
Why is it important for scientists to share their findings with other scientists? | Sharing results and discussing experiment/investigation outcomes allows scientists to better understand methods and conclusions. |