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Nature of science
unit 1
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| empirical evidence | The observations,measurements, and other types of date that people gather and test to support and evaluate scientific explanations. |
| theory | the explanation for some phenomenon that is based on observation, experimentation, and reasoning; that is supported by a large quantity of evidence; and that does not conflict with any existing experimental results or observations. |
| 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 |
| dependant variable | in a scientific investigation, the factor that changes as a result of manipulation of one ore more independent variables |
| independant variable | in a scientific investigation, the factor that is deliberately manipulated |
| observation | the process of obtaining information by using the senses; the information obtained by using the seneses |
| 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 applicaiton of science and mathmatics to solve real world 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 one thing in return for another, often applied to the engineering design process. |
| risk benefit analysis | the comparison of the risks and benefits of a decision or product. |
| life cycle analysis | the evaluation of the materials and energy used for the manufacture, transportation, sale, use, and disposal of a technology. |
| Pugh chart | a table used to compare the features of multiple items, such as technological products or solutions. |