1.1: Science and the Natural World

Evidence

Proof Collected body of data from observations and experiments

Science Investigation

Scientific investigation is the way in which scientists and researchers use a systematic approach to answer questions about the world around us. Read on to find out more At the heart of science is the scientific investigation, which is done by following the scientific method. A scientific investigation is a plan for asking questions and testing possible answers.

Independent Variable

The experimental factor that is manipulated; the variable whose effect is being studied. manipulated variable

Scientific Method

The scientific method is a body of techniques for investigating phenomena, acquiring new knowledge, or correcting and integrating previous knowledge. To be termed scientific, a method of inquiry is commonly based on empirical or measurable evidence subject to specific principles of reasoning. a method of procedure that has characterized natural science since the 17th century, consisting in systematic observation, measurement, and experiment, and the formulation, testing, and modification of hypotheses.

Model

a simplification of reality used to understand the relationship between variables A representation of an object or system

Observation

any information collected with the senses something you find out about objects, events, or living things using your senses

Science

the intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment. a systematically organized body of knowledge on a particular subject

Dependent Variable

when one quantity depends for its value on one or more others a response to the change of the independent variable

Prediction

A guess A statement about what will or might happen in the future.

Scientific Law

A scientific law is a statement based on repeated experimental observations that describes some aspects of the universe. In general, a scientific law is the description of an observed phenomenon. It doesn't explain why the phenomenon exists or what causes it.

Scientific Theory

A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, based on a body of facts that have been repeatedly confirmed through observation and experiment. Such fact-supported theories are not "guesses" but reliable accounts of the real world. a coherent group of propositions formulated to explain a group of facts or phenomena in the natural world and repeatedly confirmed through experiment or observation: the scientific theory of evolution.

Hypothesis

An educated guess A testable prediction, often implied by a theory

Experiment

An investigation done in order to make a discovery or test a hypothesis a repeatable procedure that is used to test a hypothesis