Term | Definition |
scientific method | the series of steps followed to solve problems, including collecting data, formulating a hypothesis, testing the hypothesis, and stating conclusions |
observation | the process of obtaining information by using the senses; the information obtained by using the senses |
hypothesis | in science, an idea or explanation that is based on observations and can be tested. |
prediction | a statement made in advance that expresses the results that will be obtained by testing a hypothesis if the hypothesis is supported; the expected outcome if a hypothesis is accurate. |
experiment | a procedure that is carried out under controlled conditions to discover, demonstrate, or test a fact, theory or general truth. |
control group | in an experiment, a group that serves as a standard of comparison with another group to which the control group is identical except for one factor |
experimental group | in an experiment, a group that is identical to a control group except for one factor and that is compared with the control group. |
independent variable | in an experiment, the factor that is deliberately manipulate, also called the manipulated variable. |
dependent variable | in an experiment, the factor that changes as a result of the manipulation of a variable. |
theory | an explanation for some phenomenon that is based on observation, experimentation, experimentation and reasoning; that is supported by a large quantity of evidence; and does not conflict with any existing experimental results or observations |
peer review | the process in which experts in a given field examine the results and conclusions of a scientist's study before that study is accepted for publication |