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Unit 1a.2
Science Inquiry Key Terms 2017 - 2018
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Hypothesis | A statement that explains or makes generalizations about a set of facts or principles, usually forming a basis for possible experiments to confirm its viability |
| Scientific Theory | A set of statements or principles devised to explain a group of facts or phenomena. Most theories that are accepted by scientists have been repeatedly tested by experiments and can be used to make predictions about natural phenomena |
| Law | A phenomenon of nature that has been proven to invariably occur whenever certain conditions exist or are met |
| Experiment | A scientific procedure undertaken to make a discovery, test a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact. |
| Metric System | The decimal measuring system based on the meter, liter, and gram as units of length, capacity, and weight or mass. |
| Dependent Variable | A dependent variable is what you measure in the experiment and what is affected during the experiment. |
| Independent Variable | A variable that is intentionally changed to observe its effect on the dependent variable. |
| Control Variable | A variable that is held constant in order to assess or clarify the relationship between two other variables. |
| Phenomena | A fact or situation that is observed to exist or happen, especially one whose cause or explanation is in question |
| Skepticism | An attitude of doubt |
| Investigation | Detailed or careful examination of the facts |
| Apparatus | A tool or piece of equipment used for specific activities |
| Technique | A way of carrying out a particular task |
| Protocol | A plan for a scientific experiment or for medical treatment |