Key Science Terms

Question 1

Independent variable

Answer 1

The factor that is intentionallly changed

Question 2

Dependent variable

Answer 2

The factor being measured

Question 3

Control variable

Answer 3

Factor you keep the same

Question 4

Zero error

Answer 4

Any indication that a measuring system gives a false reading when the true value of a measured quantity is zero, eg the needle on an ammeter failing to return to zero when no current flows.

Question 5

Random error

Answer 5

Random errors are errors made by the person carrying out the measuring, and are usually down to timing incorrectly, or reading the instrument incorrectly

Question 6

Systematic error

Answer 6

a consistent, repeatable error caused by faulty equipment or poor experimental design, causing all results to be shifted in one direction (too high or too low)