Science Method and Lab Safety
What is Scientific Method
-It is a logical, problem solving technique. Steps of Scientific Method -observation -problem solving -hypothesis statement -experiment / data collection -conclusion statement Observation -scientific method begins with observation and is a visible or provable fact. -inference is an opinion, or conclusion based on observed facts. Problem Statement -careful observations lead to questions that arise. - a problem statement is a question that compares variables. (example): Does the drop height affect the bounce height of a superball? What is A Constant
-a variable that does not change for the duration of an experiment; value remains the same. -(example): Does the drop height affect the bounce height of a superball? The superball does not change during the experiment. Hypothesis Statement -a statement that expresses the expected answer to the problem statement; -what you think the results of the experiment will show. -(example): If the superball is dropped from increasing heights then the bounce heights will also increase because... Experiment -a planned way to test a hypothesis and find out the answer tho the problem statement. -a way to collect data and determine the value of the dependent variable -compares the independent variable to the dependent variable. -can only test one dependent variable at a time. Conclusion Statement -a statement that presents the findings of the experiment, what the data show, and states if the hypothesis was supported or negated. |
What Are Variables
-a variable is something that changes. -There are independent variables and dependent ones. What is An Independent Variable -a variable that changes unrelated to other factors; one we manipulate, change, or purpose. -it is a variable whose value we know before an experiment. -(example):Does the drop height affect the bounce height of a superball? We know the drop heights we will use. What is A Dependent Variable -a variable that changes depending on some other factors; the variable we are trying to find out. -a variable whose value we do not know before an experiment. -(example):Does the drop height affect the bounce height of a superball? We do not know the bounces height drop before the experiment. Why Do We Use Graphs
-graphs help us visualize numerical data. -there are several different types of graph. (bar graphs, line graphs, pie graphs.) Bar Graphs -used to show a comparison of multiple objects. Pie Graphs -use to compare parts of a whole. Line Graphs -show the relationship between variables. Types of Relationships (between variables) -Direct: as x increases y increases -Indirect: as x increases y decreases -Constant: as x increases y remains the same 5 Safety Lab Rules
-always wear goggles -always wear gloves -make sure you read the directions to your experiment -wear a lab coat -no food around the lab while conducting an experiment |