Ch. 1: Scientific Approach

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Ch. 1 Scientific Approach

• Scientific Theory Well tested explanation for
  a set of observations or experimental results.
• Good theories are supported by data from lots of
  experiments/trials.
• Can be revised as new data adds to understanding.
• A good theory allows you to make accurate
  predictions.
• Can never be truly proved.
• Ex Plate tectonics theory provides an
  explanation for volcano earthquake activity.
• Kinetic Molecular Theory explains why ice
  melts in terms of molecular motion.

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Ch 1.Scientific Approach

• Scientific Law describes an observed pattern in
  nature w/out attempting to explain it. (Theories
  explain)
• Ex Newtons 2nd Law of Motion (F ma)
• If you push two objects of different mass w/
  the same force, the one w/ less mass will
  accelerate more.
• Hubbles Law
• Galaxies that are farther away from us move
  away from us faster than closer galaxies.

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Ch. 1 Scientific Approach

• Scientific Model Representation of something
  too difficult observe
• Examples
• Model of atoms help us understand matter.
• Computer simulations of black holes
• Models can change w/ new data

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Theory? Law? Model?

• Theory ? EXPLAINS data
• Law ? STATES what happens
• Model ? Simulation, Represents