1.1 Scientific Method/Notes Study Guide
prediction
A logical statement about what will happen if the hypothesis is correct.
Hypothesis
A testable prediction, often implied by a theory
Scientific Method
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.
experiment
a scientific procedure undertaken to make a discovery, test a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact.
Theory
a supposition or a system of ideas intended to explain something, especially one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained.
DNA
deoxyribonucleic acid
qualitative data
descriptive data
manipulated variable
factor in an experiment that a scientist purposely changes; also known as independent variable
responding variable
factor in an experiment that a scientist wants to observe, which may change in response to the manipulated variable; also known as a dependent variable
evidence
the available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid.
scientific investigation
the process by which a scientist asks a question about the natural world, collects and analyzes data to help answer that question, and communicates the results to the scientific community
research
the systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.
Science
An organized way of gathering and analyzing evidence about the natural world.
Quantitative data
Data associated with mathematical models and statistical techniques used to analyze spatial location and association.
Observation
The act of noticing and describing events or processes in a careful, orderly way.
Data
information gathered from observations