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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 observation 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 by using the 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 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 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 technical products, or solutions |