observations, inferences, and the big bang theory
TRANSCRIPT
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.