observations, inferences, and the big bang theory

Observations, Inferences, and The

Big Bang Theory

ObservationsUse the senses to gather

information

Noting and recording of factsExample: There are 12

tables in the room.

InferencesInterpretations of observations

(facts) based on prior knowledge and experience

Example: When you entered the room, you most likely inferred that the person in the front of the room was the teacher.

In laboratory exercises…

Record observations NOT inferences.

Inferences may be used when writing your conclusion

Observations InferencesAn observation may lead you

to make an inferenceExample: You observe that a

glass of juice left uncovered will spoil. You infer that something in the air is causing it to spoil.

Can you gather evidence to support this?

Inferences HypothesisYou inferred that something in the air

was getting into the juice.

Your hypothesis must be tested and have a measureable outcome. How can you test your claim?

What will you observe to measure?

Will your measurement be qualitative (sensory) or quantitative (numerical)?

A hypothesis is supported or disproved…

A hypothesis cannot be proved.

It can have observations that support or disprove it.

Observations may lead to a different conclusion.

What is a scientific theory?

A collection of many hypotheses that have been supported by observations in many experiments over a long period of time.

Can be refined and strengthened over time.

What is a scientific law?A rule to explain observations

that are absolute, universal, and true all of the time.Objects always fall towards

earth.Matter cannot be created nor

destroyed.Energy cannot be created nor

destroyed.

What’s the difference?

Simply…A law is an

observation (fact).A theory is an

explanation of why something happens.