Inverse Operations
The golden rule
An equation works like a balanced scale --> whatever you do to one side do to the other side.
The form why is this correct 4.3 x 10^3
Coefficient (4.3) must be at least 1 but less than 10.
5 rules
1. NonZero digits always count
2. Zeros between non zeros digit count
3. Leading zeros do NOT count
4. Trailing zeros count when they follow a decimal point
5. All numbers in a coefficient in scientific notation are significant
5. Precision = how far into the decimal you go
Distance measure the total path traveled is distance a scalar or a vector?
A Scalar - Size ONLY with no direction
Define Observation
Information noticed or measured about a phenomenon or pattern
Inverse pairs
Multiplying Rule
Multiply coefficients then ADD the exponents
adding or subtacting
round to the least precise place value
Precision = how far into the decimal you go
Walk 3 m east, then 4 m west. Give both distance and displacement.
Distance = 7m
Displacement = 1 m west
Define Hypothesis
A testable explanation "If ... then... because..."
Identify operations attached to the variable --> undo them in reverse order --> perform on both sides --> check your work
Decimal direction
Large numbers --> decimal moves LEFT --> positive exponent
Small numbers --> decimal moves RIGHT --> negative
Rounding Rule
4 or Less (LEAVE IT ALONE)
5 or more (round up 1)
What is Displacement?
The change in position a straight line from start to end point (Includes direction)
Define Theory
Explanation supported through repeating testing. A theory does NOT turn into a Law.
Denominator rule
If the variable sits in the denominator (eg if you are solving for t in t is in the denominator v=d/t) first multiply both sides by t then apply another inverse step.
Dividing Rule
Divide coefficients. SUBTRACT the exponents.
multiplying or dividing
round to the fewest sig. figs.
One full lap of 400 m and you finish where you started. What are your distance and displacement?
Distance = 400 m
Displacement = 0 m
Define scientific law
A statement that summarizes repeated observation under given condition
Rearranging Formulas v=d/t solve for d & solve for t
v=d/t solve for d d=vt, solve t t=d/v
Adding/Subtracting Rule
Match the exponents FIRST, then combine the coefficients (Do Not multiply or divide here)
solve 4.50 x 1.5
= 6.75 the least sig. fig in the problem is 2 so you must round to make the answer 2 sig figs. so the answer = 6.8
DOUBLE (1000 if you get right) Under what motion are distance and displacement exactly equal?
Motion along a straight line that never changes direction
(The instant you turn, distance will be larger than displacement)
Define Independent variable, Dependent Variable & Controlled Variable.
IV-The factor the scientist deliberately changes (graphing goes on the x-axis)
DV- The response the scientist measures (goes on the y-axis)
CV- Factors kept the same does NOT change