Independent Variable • The variable that is purposely changed to test a hypothesis.
Memory Tool How does ______ affect _____? Blank #1 = independent variable Blank #2 = dependent variable
Dependent Variable • The variable that might change in response to the independent variable.
Control • The part of the experiment that is kept under “normal” conditions. • Not always necessary
Constants • Those parts of the experiment that need to be kept the same throughout the experiment.
Bias (is bad) • When what a scientist expects to happen changes the end results.
Scientific Theory • A well-tested explanation for a wide range of observations or experimental results. • Future testing can still prove an accepted theory to be incorrect. • Based on laws
Examples of Theories • Cell Theory • Kinetic Theory of Matter
Scientific Law • Is a rule of nature. • A statement that describes what scientists expect to happen every time under a particular set of conditions.
Examples of Laws • Newton’s 3 laws of motion • Universal law of Gravitation
To sum it up… • Houses can be changed (like a theory), but bricks cannot (like a law) OR • Songs can be changed (like a theory), but the notes cannot (like a law)