Tools in Science : Tools in Science Lesson 6
Objectives : Objectives Describe the appropriate use of instruments and scales to accurately and safely measure time, mass, distance, volume or temperature under a variety of conditions.
Apply appropriate measurement systems to record and interpret observations under varying conditions.
Describe ways technology extends and enhances human abilities for specific purposes.
State Standards : State Standards Pennsylvania State Science Standard
3.7 – Technological Devices
7.A – Describe the safe and appropriate use of tools, materials, and techniques to answer questions and solve problems.
7.B – Use appropriate instruments and apparatus to study materials.
Why Scientists Use Tools : Why Scientists Use Tools To study things that are beyond their natural ability.
Extend the power of the human eye.
Example: Microscope, telescope
Allow them to take measurements.
Measurements in science need to be very precise!!!
Help to clearly describe and communicate data.
Scientific Tools : Scientific Tools Hydraulic lift is a tool that transfers force through dense fluids under pressure.
Scientists need to use appropriate tools for their studies
Objects far away – binoculars, telescope
Objects close – microscopes, hand lenses
Types of Microscopes : Types of Microscopes
Scientific Tools : Scientific Tools Mass is the amount of matter in an object.
a balance is used to measure mass.
Volume
A pipette is used to measure small voumes of liquid.
Graduated cylinder
Distance
Tape measure, ruler, meter sticks
Micrometer is a specialized tool to measure width.
Scientific Tools : Scientific Tools Weather
Thermometers
Anemometers measure wind speed
Barometers measure air pressure
Practice Question #1 : Practice Question #1 Micrometers and rulers are both tools for measuring an objects size.
A. Describe when a scientist would choose to use a micrometer instead of a ruler.
B. Explain why rulers are not always the most appropriate tool for measuring an object’s size.
Measurement : Measurement Scientists all over the world use the same measurement system.
SI Units – International System of Units
Measurement : Measurement Each type of measurement has a base unit.
Scientists use prefixes to show relationships to the base unit.
The prefixes are based on the multiples of 10.
See next slide…..
Slide 12 :
Measurement : Measurement A measurement is only precise as the tool you use.
Calibration are the marks on a tool showing the scale units.
This helps scientists select the correct tool for the job.
Practice Question #2 : Practice Question #2 Which of these units would a scientist most likely use to record the volume of water in an aquarium?
A. liters
B. gallons
C. milliliters
D. microliters