HONORS CHEMISTRY: scientific foundations DATE:_____ Assignments Due: Read Chapter 1. Objectives: SWBAT. …explain the steps in the scientific method. …clarify the distinction between hypotheses, theories, and laws. …identify the human variables inherent in scientific knowledge and its development. THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD: k Though used by every scientist, the scientific method is rarely done in rigid, isolated steps. Still, recognize that there are several key features in any proper scientific investigation… 1. RECOGNIZE AND STATE PROBLEM - a) 2. PROPOSE EXPLANATION aka - b) Hypothesis: -Often statements. ex). 3. TEST EXPLANATION - c) - d) - Studying the results will cause you to either e) or f ) . - Conclusions must be stated in a form that others can evaluate. - Good science must be One way of looking at the scientific method... or SCIENTIFIC THEORY VS. SCIENTIFIC LAW Scientific Theory: - Model: - Based on… - - ex) Scientific Law: - Strictly empirical (observable); they do not attempt to explain why - ex) INDUCTION VS. DEDUCTION Induction: ex) - The broader the conclusion, the harder it is to prove since… Deduction: ex) - Commonly used as the basis of: OVERVIEW OF ‘NATURE OF SCIENCE’: 1. Science is built on empirical evidence gained from natural world. - Data must be used to justify your conclusions and be open to review by others. - Note: Not all data/evidence can come from experiments. ex) 2. Observations are different than inferences. Theories are different from laws. - Observations: - Inference: 3. Scientific knowledge involves imagination and creativity, ... - ex) ... is at least partially subjective, ... - Objective: - Subjective: ... and is influenced by culture and society. - ex) 4. All scientific knowledge must be subject to repeated validation and possible change. - - ex.) 5. Some questions cannot be investigated using scientific methods. - ex) - Note: science and religion are not at war. Both provide vital and distinct roles in society! Homework: ECP (1) 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 NOTE: “In-Class Discussion Questions” are never homework problems! Also- Apply 3 terms from today’s discussion to everyday situations. Next Class: Go over problems, apply scientific method. “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not one bit simpler.” ~ Albert Einstein .