Scientific Method and Experimental Design

Scientific Method

• A series of steps scientists use to ensure accurate work.
• Steps include: asking a question, research, making a prediction, experimentation (gathering evidence), collecting results, sharing results or revising prediction.

Experiment Design

• Experiments follow the scientific method.
• Key components include:
  • A clear question
  • Hypothesis (statement of expected outcome based on prior knowledge)
  • Constants (factors kept the same)
  • Independent variable (factor changed)
  • Dependent variable (factor measured)
  • Conclusion (states if hypothesis was supported)

Data Interpretation

• Scientific evidence is all collected data.
• To interpret data, check if it answers the question and supports the hypothesis.
• Data interpretation explains what the data shows.

Types of Variables

• Variables are features in experiments that can change.
• Three types:
  • Independent variable: changed by the scientist
  • Dependent variable: measured/observed outcome
  • Controlled variable: kept the same throughout the experiment.

Timelines

• Timelines show events in order.
• Understanding the topic and time units (days, months, years, decades, centuries) is key for interpreting timelines.

Engineering Design Process

• A series of steps for problem-solving by engineers.
• Steps include:
  • Ask (define the problem)
  • Research
  • Imagine (brainstorm solutions)
  • Select & Plan (choose a solution, plan how to build)
  • Create (build a prototype)
  • Test & Evaluate (test and refine)
  • Improve (revise and create a final product).

Atoms

• Atoms are the smallest building blocks of matter.
• Atoms have a nucleus (protons and neutrons) with electrons orbiting around it.
• Atoms bond to form different substances (solid, liquid, gas).

Electrons

• Electrons are negatively charged particles orbiting the nucleus.
• Electrons can create electrical current and bond atoms.
• Not all materials' atoms have the same number of electrons.

Valence Electrons

• Valence electrons are electrons in the outermost electron shell.
• Valence electrons are important for determining element combinations.
• The periodic table helps determine valence electrons based on group.

Molecules

• Molecules are two or more bonded atoms.
• The number and type of atoms determine a molecule’s size and shape.

Elements, Compounds, Mixtures

• Elements: Single type of atom, cannot be broken down.
• Compound: Two or more different types of elements chemically bonded.
• Mixture: Two or more compounds/elements without chemical bonding.
• Pure Substances: Contain only one type of compound or element.

Periodic Table

• The periodic table organizes all known elements.
• Provides information like element name, symbol, atomic number, and mass.
• Helps identify an element as metal, nonmetal, or metalloid.

Elements Properties

• Elements include solids, liquids, and gases.
• Each element has a unique name, symbol, and atomic number (number of protons).
• Common elements (H, He, C, O, N, Na, Au, Ag, Fe, Cu, Al, Cl, Si) are highlighted.
• Elements are fundamental building blocks of matter.

Briefly learn about the scientific method, experiment design, data interpretation, and types of variables. The scientific method includes a series of steps scientists use to ensure accurate work. Key components of experiment design include a clear question, hypothesis, constants, independent variable, dependent variable, and conclusion.