Scientific Research & Data Analysis

• Science is the study of natural phenomena.
• Scientific research helps people to understand the world; it is often conducted in a laboratory.
• Scientific research can also be done outside of a laboratory.
• Evidence supports scientific theories and hypotheses and is obtained through observation or experiments.
• Observations are made using our senses, and this information is called qualitative data.
• Qualitative data helps to visualize objects or learn about characteristics using senses.
• Measurements that are numerical quantities of an object or phenomenon are called quantitate data.
• Quantitative data involves senses, and instruments are used to take the measurements.
• Data is systematically collected and analyzed for patterns or trends to make inferences and conclusions that support or reject a scientific idea.
• Scientific knowledge is built on the systematic collection and analysis of evidence.
• Scientific questions often start with "what", "when", "why", and "which" and may be driven by the need to define and solve a problem.
• A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for an observation.
• A hypothesis helps to explain a phenomenon or propose solutions to a problem.
• Testing a hypothesis through repeated experiments helps to eliminate possible explanations and explore new ones.
• Independent variables are changed in an experiment.
• Dependent variables are observed or measured in an experiment.
• Controlled variables are kept constant in an experiment to ensure it is fair.
• Readings from instruments are expressed as a numerical value with a unit.
• The International System of Units, or SI units, is used to ensure a common measurement standard.
• Accuracy in measurement means the reading is close to the true value, and it is affected by errors.

Types of Errors in Measurements

• Zero error occurs when an instrument gives a non-zero reading when it should be zero, and can sometimes be resolved with the "tare" function.
• Parallax error occurs when the marking on an instrument is viewed from the wrong angle.
• Precision in measurement means multiple readings are close to one another, but they may not be accurate.
• If no explanation or conclusion can be made based on the data collected, modify the investigation to obtain useful data.
• Recording processes, observations, and findings is a good practice for presenting scientific findings.
• Values, ethics, and attitudes affect how we apply our scientific knowledge and conduct investigations.

Values, Ethics, and Attitudes

• Perseverance is a value needed for science.
• Curiosity, open-mindedness, and objectivity are attitudes needed for science.
• Creativity and responsibility are values needed for science.
• Integrity is a value needed for science.
• Ethics are needed for science.
• Classification helps recognize patterns and understand the physical properties of matter.
• Items can be classified based on the materials used to make them, requiring comparison and pattern recognition.

Main Classes of Materials

• Ceramic is a class of material.
• Metal is a class of material.
• Glass is a class of material.
• Fibers are a class of material.
• Plastic is a class of material.
• Items are mainly made of these five classes of materials obtained by extracting natural resources from Earth.
• Understanding the physical properties of materials helps in making informed decisions on their use.
• The physical properties of a material can be observed and measured without changing its composition.
• To calculate volume using mathematical formulae, the lengths of objects need to be determined.

Tools to Determine Length

• Measuring tape
• Digital calipers
• Density is defined as mass per unit volume.
• The SI unit of density is kg/m³, but it can also be expressed in g/cm³.
• Density affects an object's ability to float or sink in water, based on both mass and volume.
• Reusable items can reduce waste compared to single-use items.

The 3R's

• Reduce: Use only what is needed.
• Reuse: Use things for the same or new purposes.
• Recycle: Convert waste into useful products.