1. Scientific Method Terms

2. Observation / Conclusion Observation Conclusion Qualitative or quantitative descriptions Act of gathering information Ex: The ball is round The ball is orange Statement that is a judgment based on the observation Usually based on prior information Ex: The ball is a basketball.

3. Theory / Law Theory Law An explanation based on supported hypothesis States a broad principle of nature Often lead to new conclusions Ex: Einstein’s Theory of Relativity Describes something known to happen without error Usually contains a formula Ex: Newton’s Laws (F = ma)

4. Accuracy / Precision Accuracy Precision How close a measured value is to an accepted value. Accurate Accurate and Precise How close a series of measurements are to one another. Precise Not accurate nor precise

5. Quantative / Qualitative Quantitative Qualitative Involves a measured value Must contain a number Ex. 25° or 75 grams How much, how big, how tall, how fast Temperature, volume, pressure, quantity Describes physical characteristics Observed with senses NO NUMBERS Color, shape, texture Ex. Red, round, warm, soft