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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 investigation. |
| 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 a 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 | 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 project. |
| trade-off | The giving up of one thing in return for another often applied to the engineering design process. |
| life cycle analysis | The evaluation of the materials and energy used for the manufacture, transportation, sale, use and disposal of technology. |
| pugh chart | A table used to compare the features of multiple items such as technological products and ideas. |
| risk benefit- analysis | The comparison of risks and benefits of a decision or product. |