The Scientific Method

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The Scientific Method
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What is chemistry?

• The study of matter, its structure, properties,
  and composition, and the changes it undergoes.

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How do scientists approach problems?

• Pure science science that seeks to gain
  knowledge
• Applied science science that seeks to solve a
  problem
• Also known as technology

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What is scientific knowledge based upon?

• Scientific knowledge is based on observations
• These observations lead to asking questions
• Problems are solved using the scientific method

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What is the scientific method?

• A logical approach to the solution of a problem
  or question that has been raised through
  observation

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What are the steps in the scientific method?

• Make observations about a phenomenon
• State a problem based on observations made
  (usually in the form of a question)
• Research
• Form a hypothesis
• Test the hypothesis using an experiment
• Collect data
• Repeat experiment
• Analyze and interpret the data
• State conclusions

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What is a hypothesis?

• A reasonable explanation for an observed
  phenomenon

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What is an experiment?

• A process carried out under controlled conditions
  to test the validity of a hypothesis

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What are the parts of an experiment?

• Constant factors that remain the same during
  the experiment
• Control responds in a predictable way to the
  experiment
• Variables factors that change during the
  experiment

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What are the two types of variables?

• Independent factors the experimenter has control
  over (manipulated factors)
• Dependent factors that change as a result of a
  change in the independent variable (responsive
  factors)

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What is a theory?

• An explanation of observations that are based on
  experimentation and reasoning
• Examples of theories include cellular theory,
  atomic theory, molecular theory, evolutionary
  theory, the theory of plate tectonics, the theory
  of relativity, gravitational theory

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When does a hypothesis become a theory?

• A theory is developed from a hypothesis that has
  withstood years of experimentation

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What is a scientific law?

• An explanation of the natural world
• Laws are usually a statement of a single
  observable phenomenon, such as Newtons Laws of
  Motion

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How does a theory become a law?

• Theories that withstand experimentation become
  scientific law
• Both scientific theories and laws can be proved
  incorrect