Science practice vocab

• What is the independent variable in an investigation?

  The variable you choose to change
• What is the dependent variable?

  The variable you measure during the test
• What is a controlled variable?

  A variable kept constant in the investigation
• What does the range refer to in an investigation?

  The highest and lowest values of the independent variable
• What is a valid conclusion?

  A conclusion supported by well-designed investigation results
• What does validity of experimental design indicate?

  How good the method is to answer the question
• What is resolution in measurement?

  The smallest change that can be observed
• What is an anomaly in a set of results?

  A value much bigger or smaller than others
• What is the true value?

  The value obtained in ideal conditions
• What does uncertainty refer to in measurements?

  The range within which the true value can be expected
• What is measurement error?

  The difference between measured and true value
• What causes systematic error?

  Apparatus used causing consistent reading differences
• What is random error?

  Unpredictable variations in measurements
• How can random errors be reduced?

  By taking more measurements and calculating a mean
• What is accuracy in measurements?

  Close proximity of a measurement to the true value
• What does precision refer to in measurements?

  Little spread about the mean value in measurements
• What is repeatability in measurements?

  Precision from repeat readings by one learner/group
• What does it mean if a measurement is repeatable?

  Similar results from the same method and equipment
• What is reproducibility in measurements?

  Precision from readings by different learners/groups
• What does it mean if a measurement is reproducible?

  Similar results from different learners/groups
• What is a hazard in a laboratory context?

  A chemical or apparatus that could cause harm
• What is a risk in an experiment?

  A step involving a hazard that might cause danger
• What are control measures in an experiment?

  Actions to reduce or prevent risks during experiments