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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. |
| theory | the explanation for some phenomenon that is based on observation, experimentation, and reasoning. |
| law | a descriptive statement or equation that reliably predicts events under certain conditions. |
| experiment | an organized procedure used to study something under controlled conditions. |
| hypothesis | a testable idea or explanation that leads to scientific investigation. |
| dependent variable | a result of manipulation of one or more independent variables. |
| observation | the process of obtaining information by using your senses. |
| independent variable | the variable that gets changed during the experiment. |
| data | the information gathered from observation and experimentation. |
| 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. |
| 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 technological products or solutions |
| risk-benefit analysis | the comparison of the risks and benefits of a decision or product |