Observation
Information obtained through the senses.
inference
A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning
Hypothesis
A testable prediction, often implied by a theory
Scientific Method
A series of steps followed to solve problems including collecting data, formulating a hypothesis, testing the hypothesis, and stating conclusions.
independent variable
The experimental factor that is manipulated; the variable whose effect is being studied.
dependent variable
The outcome factor; the variable that may change in response to manipulations of the independent variable.
control
In an experiment, the standard that is used for comparison
qualitative data
Information describing color, odor, shape, or some other physical characteristic
quantitative data
numerical data