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Nature of science
Unit 1
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Empirical evidence | Observations, measurements, and other types of data that people gather and test to support and evaluate scientific explanations. |
| Law | A descriptive statement or equation that reliably predicts events under certain conditions. |
| 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. |
| Experiment | An organized procedure to study something under controlled conditions. |
| Hypothesis | A testable idea or explanation that leads to scientific investigation. |
| Dependent variable | 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 | 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 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-benefit 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 |