click below
click below
Normal Size Small Size show me how
Nature of science
unit 1 --Thomas Slider
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| empirical evidence | observations, measurements, and other types of data 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 |
| 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 the senses |
| independent variable | n 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 problem |
| technology | the application of science for practical purposes; the use of tools and machines, materials, and processes to meet human needs |
| prototypes | 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 |
| pugh chart | the comparison of the risks and benefits of a decision or product |