Flashcards on The Scientific Method and Experimental Design
The Scientific Method & Experimental Design Guide for Students
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Experimental design
10 cards
Card 1
Question: What is the purpose of a control in an investigation?
Answer: To provide a comparison for the data by showing a known result and evidence that observed changes were caused by the independent variable.
Card 2
Question: How is a control set up in relation to the independent variable?
Answer: The control is an investigation where the independent variable is omitted (left out).
Card 3
Question: What is a positive control and when is it used?
Answer: A positive control is an investigation where the independent variable is deliberately added to confirm results when the variable is definitely present
Card 4
Question: Give the correct format for a hypothesis.
Answer: A hypothesis is a statement (not a question) starting with: 'It is expected that...' and must include both the independent and dependent variables pre
Card 5
Question: Why is a vague hypothesis not acceptable?
Answer: Because predicting only a general trend (e.g., 'a change in temperature will affect dissolving time') lacks the specific relationship between the inde
Card 6
Question: Write an example of a clear hypothesis about coffee dissolving in water.
Answer: It is expected that the coffee powder will dissolve faster in warm water than in cold water. (temperature of water = independent variable; time to dis
Card 7
Question: What is 'apparatus' in an investigation?
Answer: Apparatus is the equipment or items required to carry out an investigation, and it is important to use the correct apparatus in the correct way.
Card 8
Question: How should apparatus be presented in an answer?
Answer: Apparatus is usually presented as either a diagram or a list; be as specific as possible (e.g., give volumes like '3 x 250 ml beakers').
Card 9
Question: Give an example list of apparatus for a coffee-dissolving investigation.
Answer: Example: 3 x 250 ml beakers; distilled water; coffee powder; 5 ml measuring spoon; 3 x thermometers; stopwatch; kettle/ice; glass rod.
Card 10
Question: What should you consider when choosing apparatus for an investigation?
Answer: Read the instructions to determine what apparatus is available and use equipment that can be found in the school laboratory or provided for the invest