Chapter 2

Make observations and develop a question about the observations Develop a tentative answer to the question- hypothesis Design a controlled environment to test Collect data Interpret the data Conclusion Compare conclusion and hypothesis Conduct additional experiments

Inflow diverted for LA water supply Prediversion water level 6417 ft Historic low water level 1982 6372 ft Lake would be too salty for marine life by 2013

Made by any of the five sense of instruments that measure beyond what we sense

Generalization that arises from a set of observations

Observations about a particular thing agreed by

Type of statement used When scientists wish to test an inference Can be disproved If a hypothesis has not been disproved Is still not proven true Only found to be probably true

A valid scientific experiment keeps all variables constant, except the independent and dependent variables

An exact duplicate of an experiment is compared back to a standard control

The altered variable Drives dependent variable

This may cause a change in another variable in the experiment Outcome

Simplified representation of system

Initial definitions and assumptions Logical reasoning Drawing conclusions

Scientific method Limited set of observations Drawing conclusions

Experimental errors Systematic errors Accuracy Precision Precise measurements may not be accurate

Models that offer broad, fundamental explanations of many observations

Ideas that are Untestable Lack of empirical support Based on faulty reasoning or poor scientific methodology

Formulate a clear statement Gather information List alternatives Predict consequences and probability Choose the best solution Policy makers are rarely scientists Scientific education of all is essential

The discipline dealing with the art or science of applying scientific knowledge to practical problems

Apply math and science principles to help solve practical problems Create something new or improve something old Assist managers, politicians, the public, etc. on understanding the implications of technology in addressing important issues Communicate

Design is a process Statement of problem Defining constraints and evaluative criteria Developing alternatives Choosing best (optimum) alternative Implementing alternative Evaluating implementation Feedback and redesign

Establish need Develop parameters of problem Usually open ended

Constraints Economic Physical Legislative Evaluative criteria Methods used to choose best alternative Often economics

Analysis and synthesis Technical feasibility Economic feasibility

Optimization Subjective Objective (objective function subject to constraints) Applying evaluative criteria to alternatives