The Scientific Method A Quest for the Facts!

Characteristics of Science Science is the pursuit of FACTUAL knowledge about the universe and the processes the govern it. Science is NOT the pursuit of TRUTH. Therefore the Scientific Method is not appropriate for questions about Religion, Art, Philosophy, or the supernatural. The Scientific Method is the accepted process used in Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Earth/Space Science that is applied in the same manner.

Properties That Set Science Apart Scientific knowledge is obtained through empirical evidence. Scientific knowledge is developed over many years from many sources and is open to change due to the introduction of new empirical evidence. Scientific results must be reproducible using the same method by other members of the Scientific community. Scientific Theories are well supported explanations (why things work) and Laws are well supported descriptions (how things work).

Accuracy vs. Precision

Best Fit Graphs In reality your data never perfectly fits the mathematical equation that’s why we draw best fit graphs Why do you think the data is never perfect?

Linear Relationship As one variable changes the other changes proportionally in the same or opposite direction y = x Directly Proportional y =a-bx Inversely Proportional

Chem Lab What you will use most frequently: Goggles Beakers Erlenmeyer Flasks Graduated Cylinders Test tubes

Measuring Instruments When we take a measurement using an instrument in the lab we must measure one place (ones, tens, tenths, etc.) past what the markings on the instrument measure: _ _ _ _. _ _ _ Instruments commonly used: Graduated Cylinders Read from the bottom of the meniscus Thermometers Read from the top of the curve Balance (Triple or Four Beam) Combine all weights

Lab Safety