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Nature of Science
Unit 1
| 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 the senses |
| data | information gathered by observation or experimentation that can be used 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 purpose the use of tools machines materials and processes to meet human needs |
| prototype | A test model of a product |
| trade-off | The giving up on one thing in return for another often applied to the engineering design process |
| risk benefits analysis | The comparison of the risk and benefits of a decision or product |
| pugh chart | A table used to compare the features of multiple ideas such as technological products or solutions |
| independent variable | In a scientific investigation the factor this is deliberately manipulated. |