Physical Science Chapter 1

independent variable

The experimental factor whose effect is being studied.

Absolute zero

0K, when atoms can no longer move

Hypothesis

A educated prediction that answers the testable question in an experiment. Sometimes written as an if then statement.

Constant

A factor in an experiment that is the same for all experimental groups

formula for density

D = m/v

Control Group

In an experiment, the group that is left in a natural state - used as a comparison

SI unit for temperature

Kelvin

formula for volume

LxWxH

Bias

When the expectations of a scientist affect the outcome of their analysis

theory

a hypothesis that has been tested multiple times and has stood up to extended scrutiny.

mass

a measurement of the quantity of matter in an object

Experiment

a set of controlled observations that test the hypothesis

law

a statement that describes observations about natural phenomenon

distance

a unit of length

graph

a visual display of information or data

standard

an exact quantity that people agree to use to compare measurements

Scientific Method

an organized set of investigative procedures

bar graph

compares information collected by counting

temperature

how hot or cold something is

density

mass per unit volume of a material

the SI unit for length

meters

model

represents an idea, event, or object and helps people better understand it

SI unit for time

seconds

circle graph

shows how a fixed quantity is broken down; represents the total and slices represent the different parts

line graph

shows relationship where dependent variable changes due to a change in the independent variable

SI

the international system of units

time

the interval between two units

volume

the space occupied by an object

dependent variable

what changed because of the experiment