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Nature of Science
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| empirical evidence | The observations,measurements,and other types of data that people gather and test to support and evaluate scientific explanations. |
| theory | a system of ideas that explains many related observations and is supported by a large body of evidence acquired through scientific investigation. |
| law | A descriptive statement or equation that reliably predicts events under certain conditions. |
| experiment | An organized procedure to study something under controlled conditions |
| hypothesis | A testable idea or explanation that leads to scientific investigation |
| dependent variable | In a scientific investigation,the factor that changes as a result of manipulation of one or more independent variables |
| observation | The process of obtaining information by using the senses; the information obtained by using senses |
| independent variable | in a scientific investigation,the factor that is deliberately manipulated |
| data | Information gathered by observation or experimentation that can be used in calculating or reasoning |
| model | a pattern, plan ,representation,or description designed to show the structure or workings of an object,system, or concept. |
| engineering | the application of science and mathematics to solve real-life problems |
| technology | the application of science for practical purposes; the use of tools, machines, materials, and processes to meet human needs |
| prototype | a test model of a product |
| trade-off | The giving up of an one thing in return for another,often applied to the engineering design process |
| risk benefit | the comparison of the risks and benefits of a decision or product |
| life cycle analysis | The evaluation of the materials and energy used for manufacture,transportation,sale,use,and disposal of technology |
| Pugh chart | a table used to compare the features of multiple items, such as technological products or solutions |