Section 1: Definitions and Differentiation

Read:OpenStax College Physics 1.1, "Models, Theories, and Laws; the Role of Experimentation" section.

In multiple sentences or a short paragraph, address the following prompts with enough detail to convey your understanding of these ideas in a scientific context.

1. Discuss the meaning of a Scientific Model. What forms can a Scientific Model take?

1. Discuss the meaning of a Scientific Theory. Differentiate between a Scientific Theory and a Hypothesis.

1. Discuss the meaning of a Scientific Law. Differentiate between a Scientific Law and a Scientific Theory.

Section 2: Modeling Constant Velocity

Read:OpenStax College Physics 2.3, "Time," "Velocity", and "Speed" sections.

1. Consider the following situation: An object moves forward at a constant rate of 4 meters for each second. At time zero this object begins at 8 meters behind the origin, also known as - 8 meters from zero. Complete the provided data table of position and time that is consistent with this object's motion from zero to ten seconds.

t (s)	x (m)
0
10

1. From the data developed above, make a graphical model of this motion. You will need to make a graph using Excel or Google Sheets. The following graph requirements will be used throughout this course:
   1. The graph will be a Scatter Plot, also known as an XY Scatter
   2. There will be an applicable and appropriate title for the graph
   3. Each axis will be labeled with proper variables and corresponding units
   4. A best-fit line or curve will be applied as suggested by the data
   5. A corresponding or matching equation will be clearly representative of the provided best-fit.

1. Paste the graph below:

1. Explain how this graphical model can be used to determine the velocity and the starting position of the object.

1. Was the motion of the object maintaining a constant velocity or changing velocity? What evidence from the graphical model informs this type of velocity?

1. Show an Algebraic Model by restating the equation from the graph so that you replace the Y and X with the actual variables being graphed. Apply the appropriate units to the values within the equation.

1. What are some limitations of these graphical and algebraic models?

Section 3: Accuracy and Precision

Read:OpenStax College Physics Chapter 1.3, "Accuracy and Precision of a Measurement" section.

In multiple sentences or a short paragraph, address the following prompts with enough detail to convey your understanding of these ideas in a scientific context.

1. Describe a situation where a set of measurements have high accuracy, but low precision. This situationMUST be different than what has already been provided for you in the textbook.

1. Describe a situation where a set of measurements have low accuracy, but high precision. This situationMUST be different than what has already been provided for you in the textbook.

Section 4: Measurements

Remember this is a science course and your measurements will be conducted using metric system units. There is a data table provided below.

Directions:

1. Obtain an object with a reasonably rectangular volume that can be measured.
2. Take a picture of the object and paste that image below:

1. Find the mass of the object and record that value in the data table provided.

• If you do not have a mass scale at home, select an object with a known mass or one that can be researched. For instance, food items have a printed mass, or a cell phone's mass could be found with a quick Internet search.

1. Using a cm ruler, measure and record the three dimensions of your selected object (length, width, height).
2. Repeat the measurements for a second trial.
3. Demonstrate a sample calculation for one trial to determine the volume of the rectangle.
   1. Show the equation to be used.
   2. Substitute the values for that trial into the equation.
   3. Solve and apply the appropriate units. Record the volume for each trial in the data table.

1. The simple average for the two volume values can be found by adding the volumes from the two trials and then dividing by the number of trials. Show this for the Average Volume based on your two measured trials and record it in the data table.

Average Volume=Add volume of all Trials togetherNumber of Trials

1. Determine the % difference between your volume calculations for these two trials and record it in the data table.

%Difference=Absolute value of volume difference between two trials (Trial 1-Trial 2)Average Volume*100

1. Consider the average density for your selected object and record it in the data table.

Density=MassAverage Volume

Section 4 Data Table:

Mass (g)
	Trial 1	Trial 2
Length (cm)
Width (cm)
Height or Depth (cm)
Volume (cm3)
Average Volume (cm3)
Volume %Difference
Density (g/cm3)

1. Based on this measurement activity, discuss the precision of your measurements. Use specific evidence to support your idea(s).

1. Consider the accuracy of your calculated density. Specifically address this calculation and which variable would have the most influence on the accuracy of your answer.