Variables
Condition in an experiment that can be controlled or changed
Variable
Descriptive data about a variable (ex. color, behavior, and texture)
Qualitative Data
An explanation of an observation that can be tested through experimentation
Hypothesis
Ensuring that measurements are close to the true value
Accuracy
A solution than can maintain a relatively stable pH
Buffer
Variables that are not being tested, but must be kept the same in case they affect the experiment
Control Variable
Numerical data that give the quantity, amount, or range of a variable (ex. concentration of oxygen, number of eggs laid, and amount of smiles collected)
Quantitative Data
A statement of the expected results in an experiment based on the hypothesis being tested
A graph which is drawn to show the relationship between two continuous variables
Line Graph
Refers to the closeness of the measurements to each other; precise measurements close to each and little spread about the mean
Experimental Precision
Variable that can only take certain values (ex. human blood type, eye color, and hair color)
Discontinuous Variable
An error in measurement which is cause by factors which vary from one measurement to another
Random Error
Variable being measured in an experiment
Dependent Variable
A graph which is drawn to show the relationship between one continuous and one discontinuous variable
Bar Chart
Level of refinement in a measurement as shown by the number of significant figures given
Measurmental Precision
Variable that can take any value (ex. temperature, time, and concentration)
Continuous Variable
A consistent error which affects each measurement in the same way, normally caused by faulty measuring equipment or difficulties in reading that equipment
Systematic Error
Variable being changed in an experiment
Independent Variable
A container of water heated to a given temperature which can be used to either vary or control the temperature
Water Bath
Results that can be replicated by other people
Reliable
A variable that could affect the independent or dependent variable and therefore the results of the experiment
Confounding Variable
A result or observation that deviates from what is normal or expected; in experimental results, it normally refers to one repeated result that does not fit the pattern of the others
Anomaly (Anomalous)
A group within an investigation or study that receives exactly the same treatment as the experimental groups with the exception of the variable being tested
Control Experiment
A graph which is drawn to show the frequency of one continuous variable
Histogram
Well-sustained explanation of an aspect of the natural world that has been repeatedly tested and confirmed through observation and experimentation
Theory