Scientific Skills in Investigations
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Questions and Answers

Which apparatus is primarily used for precise volume measurements?

  • Volumetric pipette (correct)
  • Measuring cylinder
  • Conical flask
  • Burette

Which of the following is primarily used for heating substances?

  • Watch glass
  • Volumetric flask
  • Bunsen burner (correct)
  • Petri dish

Which piece of equipment is most suitable for separating solid particles from a solution?

  • Filter paper (correct)
  • Thistle funnel
  • Condenser
  • Evaporating dish

What is the main purpose of a watch glass in a laboratory?

<p>To cover beakers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is not primarily used for measuring volume?

<p>Three-beam balance (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which device is most commonly used for observing small or microscopic specimens?

<p>Microscope (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a mortar and pestle in the laboratory?

<p>To grind solids (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which equipment is specifically used for keeping samples at a controlled temperature during experiments?

<p>Refrigerator (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of controlled variables in an experiment?

<p>To ensure a fair test and valid results (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using columns in a structured summary?

<p>To compare and analyze data easily (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the dependent variable represent in an experiment?

<p>The outcome measured in response to the independent variable (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a hypothesis in scientific investigations?

<p>To serve as a prediction based on prior knowledge. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of graph is best suited for showing the relationship between two continuous variables?

<p>Line graph (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In formulating a hypothesis, what must be included?

<p>A prediction based on prior knowledge (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in starting an investigation?

<p>Identify the problem (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When should pie charts be used according to the described usage?

<p>When parts of a whole need representation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'independent variable' refer to in an experiment?

<p>The variable that is modified or changed intentionally. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of bar graphs?

<p>Bars represent different categories with space between them (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes 'graphs' in scientific investigations?

<p>Visual representations that facilitate trend identification. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the structure of a hypothesis?

<p>If [independent variable], then [dependent variable] (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a structured summary, why should units not be included in the body of the table?

<p>It is unnecessary as each column has a heading (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of 'calculations' in scientific research?

<p>To carry out quantitative analysis and derive meaningful information. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a clear goal in an investigation help to establish?

<p>An aim for what the investigation hopes to find out (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates histograms from bar graphs?

<p>Histograms display grouped continuous data with connected bars (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of the scientific method involves identifying the main question for the investigation?

<p>Investigation design (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characteristics should an investigative question have?

<p>It should be specific and testable (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the apparatus section of an investigative design?

<p>A list of materials and equipment needed (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about line graphs is correct?

<p>They can effectively show trends over time or relationships between continuous variables (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'dependent variable' refer to in an experiment?

<p>The variable that changes in response to the independent variable. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is essential for numerical data in a table regarding decimal places?

<p>All numerical data should be rounded to the same number of decimal places (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following refers to descriptive data that provides details about qualities and characteristics?

<p>Qualitative data (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of scientific investigations, what is the primary purpose of the conclusion?

<p>To summarize findings and state the validity of the hypothesis. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a guideline for drawing?

<p>Use shading to highlight important features (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a guideline for labels in a drawing?

<p>Do not cross lines (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using a ruler for drawing?

<p>To ensure accurate measurements (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to record measurements immediately?

<p>To avoid forgetting the measurements (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between accuracy and precision in measurement?

<p>Accuracy refers to how close a measurement is to the true value, while precision refers to how close repeated measurements are to each other. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common measurement error?

<p>All of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is parallax error?

<p>The error that occurs when the scale is viewed at an angle (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using multiples when measuring very small quantities?

<p>To reduce the impact of human error (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a scientific experiment, what does it mean if the results are reliable?

<p>The experiment was repeated several times and similar results were obtained. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of simplifying a number to a specified decimal place?

<p>To ensure that the number is accurate to a certain degree. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of expressing a number in scientific notation?

<p>To represent numbers in a more compact form. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When using formulas to solve for an unknown variable, what is the first step involved?

<p>Write down the formula. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the rounding process, if the digit to the right of the target decimal place is 4 or lower, what should be done to the target digit?

<p>Leave the target digit unchanged. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct way to express a number in scientific notation?

<p>M x 10n, where M is a number between 1 and 10 and n is an integer. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a limitation that could affect the conclusion of an experiment?

<p>Validity of the experiment. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean if an experiment has good validity?

<p>The experiment is well-designed and accurately answers the investigative question. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Accuracy

The ability of a measurement to be close to the true value.

Precision

The ability of a measurement to be consistent when repeated.

Parallax Error

An error that occurs when viewing a scale at an angle, resulting in an incorrect reading.

Measurement

The process of determining the quantity, length, or amount of something.

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Measuring Tool

A tool used for measuring.

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Precision of a Tool

The smallest unit that can be measured by a tool.

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Investigative question

A specific question you want to answer through your experiment.

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Independent variable

The factor you intentionally change in your experiment.

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Dependent variable

The factor you measure in response to changes in the independent variable.

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Hypothesis

A prediction about how the independent variable will affect the dependent variable.

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Aim

A clear, concise statement of what you hope to find out from your investigation.

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Controlled variables

Variables that are kept constant throughout the experiment to ensure a fair test and valid results.

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Method

A detailed step-by-step procedure outlining how to carry out your experiment.

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Apparatus

The equipment and materials needed to conduct your experiment.

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Scientific Method

A planned and organized approach to solving problems and gaining knowledge by carefully observing, questioning, and drawing conclusions based on evidence.

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Variables

Factors that change or influence the outcome of an experiment. There are two main types: independent and dependent.

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Observations & Data

Detailed records of observations and measurements made during an experiment. It can include qualitative and quantitative data.

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Interpretation of Data

The process of examining collected data to identify patterns, relationships, and trends. It involves analyzing and interpreting the data to draw meaningful conclusions.

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Table

A structured summary of information in rows and columns that helps compare and analyze data easily. It typically uses column headings to label the data and includes units for data with units.

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Line Graph

Shows the relationship between two types of continuous data. Ideal for displaying trends or the relationship between variables. Both variables are continuous.

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Bar Graph

Compares values across different categories. Used when the independent variable is not continuous. Bars are separate for each category, visually highlighting the differences.

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Histogram

Displays grouped continuous data. Used when the independent variable is continuous but grouped into categories. Connecting bars visualize the continuous intervals.

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Pie Chart

A circular chart representing parts of a whole. Each sector signifies a different category and its size is proportional to the quantity it represents.

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Graphs and Charts

Graphs and charts visually represent large sets of information, presenting complex data in a simplified and easy-to-understand format.

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Scientific Notation

Expressing a large or small number as a product of a number between 1 and 10 and a power of 10.

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Reliability

Repeating an experiment multiple times and consistently getting the same or very similar results.

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Validity

A test that actually checks what it claims to be checking. The experiment is designed to answer your question honestly.

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Rounding

Simplifying a number to a specified decimal place or nearest whole number.

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Using Formulas

Replacing variables in an equation with given values to calculate missing values.

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Limitations

Any factor that could affect the outcome of an experiment and should be considered when drawing conclusions.

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Volumetric pipette

A long, cylindrical glass tube with a narrow opening at the top and a bulb at the bottom. It is used to measure and dispense precise volumes of liquids.

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Measuring cylinder

A cylindrical glass container with markings to indicate volume. It is used to measure approximate volumes of liquids.

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Beaker

A wide-mouthed glass container with a conical base. It is used for mixing, heating, and storing liquids.

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Conical flask

A pear-shaped glass flask with a long, narrow neck. It is used for mixing, heating, and storing liquids. The narrow neck helps to control splashes and vaporization.

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Dropper pipette

A thin, transparent glass tube with a bulb at one end and a narrow opening at the other. It is used to transfer small volumes off liquids drop by drop.

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Watch glass

A flat, round piece of glass used as a lid for beakers and evaporating dishes.

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Tripod

A three-legged stand used to support a variety of laboratory equipment, such as a Bunsen burner or a heating mantle.

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Liquid-in-glass thermometer

A device used to measure and record the temperature of liquids or gases. It consists of a glass tube filled with liquid that expands or contracts with changes in temperature.

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Study Notes

Scientific Skills

  • Scientific method is a systematic process for solving problems and gaining knowledge through careful observation, questioning, and drawing conclusions.
  • Investigative question: This is the main question that guides the investigation. It sets the direction for data collection.
  • Hypothesis: A prediction based on prior knowledge.
  • Variables: Factors that change or influence an experiment.
    • Independent variable: The variable that is changed on purpose.
    • Dependent variable: The variable measured in response to changes in the independent variable.
    • Controlled variables: Kept constant to ensure a fair test.
  • Investigation design: Planning how the investigation will be carried out involves details about apparatus, method, and observations.
    • Apparatus: The equipment and materials needed.
    • Method: A detailed step-by-step procedure outlining the experiment.
    • Observations and data: Detailed records of what is observed or measured, divided into Qualitative (descriptions of qualities and characteristics) and Quantitative (numerical data).
  • Interpretation of data: Examining data to identify patterns, trends, and relationships.
    • Graphs: Visual representations to identify trends and comparisons.
    • Calculations: Deriving meaningful information from data, e.g., averages, percentages, ratios.
  • Conclusion: Summarizes findings, hypothesis confirmation/rejection discussion, and suggests improvements.
  • Starting the investigation: A process to initiate the scientific inquiry
    • Identify the problem: What are you curious about?
    • Set an aim: The clear goal to be achieved
    • Formulate an investigative question: Ask a question that can be answered through investigation. This needs to be testable.
    • Develop a hypothesis: A prediction based on prior knowledge, research, or observed details.

Investigative Design

  • Choosing apparatus: Select equipment that fits the investigation's aim, providing reliable and accurate measurements, and considering safety and availability.
  • Writing the method: Steps are presented in the sequence they need to be followed. Employ active voice. Avoid pronouns, but quantify where possible for precision. Include specifics and conditions allowing for replication, precautions, and any relevant steps. Avoid unnecessary steps.

Scientific Drawings

  • Guidelines for drawing: Use a sharp pencil (preferably HB), clear lines, large enough to see all structures, correctly proportionate. Usually 2D. Include a title, magnification/scale, and labelled parts. The labels are in pen and in lines, done with a ruler and aligned neatly on one side, below each other.
  • Guidelines for labels: Use pen, labels drawn using a ruler and not crossed.

Measurements

  • Measurement questions: Which quantity is being measured? What unit is being used? How precise is the measurement? How accurate is the measurement?
  • Accuracy: How close a measurement is to the true value.
  • Precision: How close repeated measurements are to each other.
  • Practical tips: Take multiple measurements, check tool calibration (set to zero), record immediately, use multiples for small quantities to reduce errors, and avoid parallax errors (observing the scale at an angle).
  • Common measurement errors: Misreading the scale, misaligned/damaged tools, parallax errors.

SI Units

  • SI units: The International System of Units, the standard system of measurement in science.
  • Metric conversions: Process of changing measurements to another metric unit using base-10 prefixes.
  • Base units: There are seven; fundamental units, not derived from other units.
  • Derived units: Formed by combining base units (e.g., force [Newton], energy [Joules])

Tables

  • Tables: A structured summary of information in rows and columns.
  • Guidelines: Each table must have a rectangular grid with rows and columns. Clear table headings with independent variables in the first column. Include units in column headings, but not in body. Numerical data rounded to the same number of decimal places.

Graphs and Charts

  • Graphs and Charts: Visual representations to simplify vast information, making it easy to understand.
  • Line graphs: Show the relationship between two continuous variables, highlighting trends.
  • Bar graphs: Compare values across different categories, suitable when the independent variable is not continuous. Bars are distinct.
  • Histograms: Display grouped continuous data; Bars are touching to show continuous intervals.
  • Pie charts: Represent parts of a whole using sectors that are proportional in size to the quantity they represent.

Conclusion Evaluation

  • Conclusion: Summarises findings, hypothesis confirmation/rejection discussion, and suggests improvements. Covers revisiting purpose, data support (partial or contradiction) and clear relationships/trends.
  • Evaluation: Reflection on the strengths, weaknesses, effectiveness of the method and areas of improvement of the investigation. Includes evaluating the methodology, data accuracy, mentioning errors, and providing possible future improvements. The process also considers whether the investigation tested the actual question being posed, and assesses its reliability and validity.

Mathematical Skills

  • Rounding: Simplifying numbers to a specified decimal place or nearest whole number.
  • Scientific notation: Expressing large or small numbers as a product of a number between 1 and 10 and a power of 10.
  • Using formulas: Replacing variables in an equation with known values, then calculating for missing values.

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Related Documents

Scientific Skills Notes PDF

Description

This quiz covers essential scientific skills such as the scientific method, investigative questions, and the key components of experimental design. Test your knowledge on hypothesis formulation, variable identification, and data collection strategies. Perfect for students learning about scientific inquiry and experimentation.

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