Chapter 1 – Introduction to Physical Science

1. Chapter 1 – Introduction to Physical Science

2. Chapter 1 – Introduction to Physical Science • Section 2 – Scientific Inquiry • Standards • 9.a – Plan and conduct a scientific investigation to test a hypothesis • 9.c – Distinguish between variable and controlled parameters in a test

3. Scientific Method • Posing Questions • Developing hypotheses • Designing experiments • Collecting and interpreting data • Drawing conclusions • Communicating ideas and results

4. Posing Questions • Questions must be posed so scientists can experiment and gather data • This is one of the most difficult parts of the scientific method What is the fastest way to make water boil?

5. Developing a Hypothesis • Hypothesis – possible answer to a scientific question or explanation for a set of observations • A hypothesis must be testable • Use the words If … then … If I add salt to the water… Then it will boil faster.

6. Designing an Experiment • A plan that is written out as a step-by-step procedure that will describe any observations and measurements you will make • Parameter – a factor that can be measured in an experiment Boil one pot of water with salt and one pot of water without. Time both and compare times

7. Designing an Experiment • Manipulated Variable – the factor that you change in the experiment (Salt) • Responding Variable – the factor that changes as a result of the manipulated variable (time to boil) • Controlled Experiment – experiment where all factors except 1 are kept constant … there is a ‘control’ in the experiment

8. Collecting and Interpreting Data • Data – facts, figures and other evidence gathered through observations • Conclusion – statement that sums up what you learned…decide if data from the experiment supports your hypothesis The pot with the salt came to a boil 132 seconds faster than the normal water – hypothesis correct