Problem Solving A Scientific Process

A Scientific Process… Is Based on Observed Facts Has Repeatable Results Produces Verifiable Outcomes Is Carried Out in a Standard, Systematic Way

Scientific Method The Standard, Systematic Way to Carry Out a Scientific Process Hypothesis (Untested Idea)‏ Experiment (Test to Check Validity of Hypothesis)‏ Theory (Valid Explanation of Observations)‏ Model – Simplified Theory with Assumptions Law (Summary of Key Experimental Observations)‏

The Scientific Method Experiment Theory Law Hypothesis

Scientific Problem Solving Hypothesis Experiment Theory/Law Understand Problem Concepts Propose Solution Based on Applicable Relationships Try Proposal (ie – Do the Math!)‏ Check Results – Do they Make Sense? Document/Summarize Results

It’s All About Measurements Measurement – 3 Parts A Number or Value; Magnitude A Unit: Provides the Standard Scale One of the Standard Scale – Known and Constant Eg, pound, gram, liter, newton What is Being Measured – Sometimes Very Important

Examples of Measurements 3.98 calories of heat 5.67 newtons force of bowling ball striking pins 10.0 liters of water 57 km/hour auto speed 7.65 gallons gasoline

Not Measurements Objects Counted Definitions – eg. Exactly 2.54 cm = 1 inch Why Not? Counted Items and Definitions are not debatable They are “perfect” No “perfect” measurements; always error; never exact

A Very Useful Technique Dimensional Analysis (aka “Factor Labeling”)‏ Converting a Measurement from One Unit to Another “Cutting to the Chase” of a Proportion Problem m Unit 1 x Unit 2/Unit 1 = n Unit 2 Problem to Try – How many pounds is 583 grams?