Vocabulary
Scientific Method
Big Bang Theory
Data and Measurement
Experimental Analysis
100
A testable explanation for an observation or question.
hypothesis
100
In the scientific method, this step involves using observations to identify something to investigate.
Asking questions/making a hypothesis
100
The theory that the universe began in an extremely hot, dense state and has been expanding.
The Big Bang Theory
100
Data that describe qualities or characteristics using words rather than numbers.
Qualitative Data
100
In an experiment testing whether fertilizer amount affects plant height, what is the independent variable?
Fertilizer amount
200
The variable that a scientist deliberately changes in an experiment.
Independent Variable
200
This group does not receive the independent variable and provides a comparison for the experimental group.
Control or control group
200
The observation that light from distant galaxies is shifted toward longer, redder wavelengths as those galaxies move away.
Redshift
200
Data expressed as numbers, such as liquid in a beaker measured in degrees Celsius.
Quantitative Data
200
A scientist tests how water temperature affects goldfish breathing rate. The number of gill movements per minute (breathing rate) is what type of variable.
dependent variable
300
The variable that is measured or observed as a result of a change in an experiment.
Dependent variable
300
In a properly written hypothesis, this phrase/format begins the prediction about how the independent variable will affect the dependent variable.
It was hypothesized that IF ________ THEN ____________.
300
Scientists believe the singularity and big bang happened ______ years ago.
13.8 billion years ago
300
What is the volume measurement of these graduated cylinders?
28mL, 34mL, 70mL, 39mL
300
In an experiment testing whether music affects student focus, the researcher keeps the room temperature, lighting, and time of day the same. These are called what?
constants/controlled variables
400
The curved surface of a liquid in a graduated cylinder that must be read at eye level.
Meniscus
400
On a graph of an experiment, this variable belongs on the x-axis.
Independent Variable
400
Leftover radiation throughout space that supports the theory that the universe was once very hot and very dense, before expanding and cooling to form particles, atoms, stars, etc.
Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation
400
Convert 360mm into centimeters and then meters.
360 mm = 36 cm = .36m
400
A student tests three types of paper towels to see which absorbs the most water. She uses the same amount of water, the same size paper towel, and the same container each time — but forgets to keep the time the same. This is the problem with her experiment.
Lack of controlled variables/constants.
500
The evidence from the early universe that supports the Big Bang Theory and shows leftover radiation detected throughout space.
Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) Radiation
500
After analyzing data, a scientist explains whether the evidence supports the hypothesis and uses results to justify the explanation. This is the one sentence conclusion or answer to the science question.
claim
500
List THREE pieces of evidence for the Big Bang Theory (including that is was an expansion of space itself not an explosion/reaction within existing space).
1. Redshift
2. Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation
3. Abundance of Hydrogen and Helium Atoms
500
Why do scientists use the metric system rather than the customary system?
Easier conversions (base 10).
500
A scientist tests whether caffeine affects heart rate. Group A drinks caffeinated coffee; Group B drinks decaf. Group B serves what role in the experiment, and why it is necessary to include in the experimental design?
Group B is a control/control group. It offers a baseline to compare the experimental group A too.