The Scientific Method Section 2.1

Introduction Most scientific discoveries result from planned investigations Researchers use the scientific method, or some form of it, to carry out investigations

The Scientific Method A logical approach to solving problems by observing and collecting data, formulating hypotheses, testing hypotheses, and formulating theories that are supported by data

Vocabulary Observe: to use your senses to obtain information Qualitative data: data that is descriptive in nature Quantitative data: data that involves numbers (measurements)

More Vocabulary System: a specific portion of matter in a given region of space that has been selected for study during an experiment or observation Hypothesis: a testable statement Model: in science, often an explanation of how phenomena occur and how data or events are related

One More Theory: a broad generalization that explains a body of facts or phenomena

Observing and Collecting Data A procedure is followed under controlled conditions to make valid observations and collect data Data is frequently displayed in a graphical way to show relationships Graph on the next slide shows the relationship between reactants and products as the reaction proceeds

Steps in the Scientific Method Observing Formulating hypotheses Testing Theorizing Publish results

Observing Collecting data Measuring Experimenting Communicating

Formulating Hypotheses Organizing and analyzing data Classifying Inferring Predicting Communicating

Form of a Hypothesis

Testing Predicting Experimenting Communicating Collecting data Measuring If data do not support hypothesis, revise or reject the hypothesis

Theorizing Constructing models Predicting Communicating

Publish Results Communicating If the results are confirmed by other scientists, the theory is validated

Check for Understanding Get a book from the bookshelf Answer the section review questions at the end of section 2.1