1. Introduction to Physics

2. Scientific Method State the problem clearly. (Ask a question)
Gather information through observations.
Form a Hypothesis.
Experiment: Test the hypothesis.
Evaluate the data to form a conclusion.
Retest.
Share the results.

3. Observations Gathered through your senses
A scientist notices something in their natural world
An example of an observation might be noticing that many salamanders near a pond have curved, not straight, tails

4. Hypothesis a working explanation or trial answer to a problem
Something that can be tested
can be written in the form of an “If..., then..., because...” statement
is not necessarily proven correct just because data/results from one experiment supports it

5. Experiment An experiment is a procedure to test the hypothesis.
An experimenter changes one factor called a variable and observes/measures what happens
The group that contains the variable being changed or tested is called the experimental group
The group that does not include the variable being tested is the control group.

6. Two Types of Variables
Independent
variables that are purposely changed or manipulated in an experiment
the factor that you wish to test
usually expressed after the word “if” in the hypothesis
Placed on the x-axis
Dependent
variables that may change as a result of the independent variable
the factor you measure to gather results
usually expressed after the word “then” in the hypothesis
Placed on the y-axis

7. Control Variable
The control variable is kept constant so as to not effect the outcome of the experiment
Controls are not being tested
Controls are used for comparison

8. Data and Measurements
During an experiment we collect data and make measurements
QUALITATIVE observations include observations we make using our senses
QUANTITATIVE MEASUREMENTS involve numbers. Use SI units — based on the metric system

9. Data and Measurement
Every measurement has a Number followed by a Unit from a measuring device
Data can be organized into tables, graphs, and charts

10. Graphing A mathematical picture
Graphs are used to show information quickly and simply
Change one variable at a time to determine relationships
Relationships we will study include linear, quadratic, and inverse

11. Types of Graphs

12. Types of Graphs

13. Types of Graphs

14. Graphing Terms
Interpolation- making predictions for data points not collected that fall between those that were actually tested
Extrapolation- making predictions for data points not collected that are greater than those actually tested

15. Conclusion
Conclusions are made by examining the data and measurements collected and evaluating how those measurements can answer the question presented
Experiments must be retested so that the outcome can be verified