Earth Science Quiz 1 Review

What do scientists often use classification systems for?

What is an example of measuring by using a direct comparison with a standard?

What do science investigators initially use classification systems for?

What constant did the student forget to do each day when collecting data?

Find the percent deviation if students calculated the circumference of a globe to be 60.0 cm and the actual circumference is 63.0 cm.

What is the formula for percent deviation?

What is true about the densities of two particles made of the same material but different in size?

What do classifying things help scientists to do?

Find the percent error if a student calculated a density to be 3.0 g/cc and the real answer was 2.7 g/cc.

Find the percent deviation if a student calculated a density to be 5.0 g/cc and the correct answer was 2.7 g/cc.

Observations and Inferences

Classification systems help scientists organize observations meaningfully.
Inferences are conclusions derived from observations, such as sediments being deposited by a stream.
Observable facts differ from inferences; for example, stating "It is clear enough to see the bottom" is an observation, whereas "It will dry up next summer" is an inference.

Measurement Techniques

A triple beam balance provides a direct comparison with a standard for measuring mass.
Consistent data collection, such as measuring at the same time each day, is crucial to establish reliable results.

Percent Deviation and Error Calculation

To find percent deviation: [(\text{difference from accepted value}/\text{accepted value}) \times 100]
If a student's calculated circumference is 60.0 cm while the actual is 63.0 cm, the percent deviation is 4.8%.
Percent error is calculated similarly, for example, if a density of 3.0 g/cc was calculated versus a real answer of 2.7 g/cc, the percent error is 11.1%.

Scientific Classifications and Identifications

Classifying materials assists in meaningful organization for scientific investigations.
Different particle sizes made of the same material will have the same density, indicating that density does not change with size.
An example inference is concluding that "the footprints were made by a dog" based on observable prints.

Understanding Variables and Consistency

Maintaining a constant, such as environmental conditions during data collection, is essential for accurate results.
Identifying differences in material properties is fundamental in geology, shown through observations of rocks and their weathering.

Prepare for Quiz 1 in Earth Science with these flashcards. This review covers essential concepts including observation organization and sediment classification. Test your understanding and readiness for the upcoming assessment.