Question when doing a simple investigative experiment .

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In summary, the conversation discusses the importance of having similar or evenly spread variables in a simple investigative experiment. The individual argues that the masses should not be similar in order to obtain a data spread. However, the other person requests more information about the experiment in order to provide a more specific answer. It is suggested that adding more weight can help achieve a spread in mass, but the advantages and disadvantages depend on the objective of the investigation.
  • #1
terpsgirl
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question when doing a simple investigative experiment...

should such variables as mass be similar to each other? what would be the advatages? disadvantages?

I said that the masses really shouldn't be similar...you're trying to get a data spread and you want your masses to not be similar but evenly spread...How right or wrong am I?

THX :)
 
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  • #2
Can you please be a little more specific? Variables depend on what kind of experiment you performed, because in some cases, things like mass are not inconsiquential. Can you go into a bit more detail about your experiment?

- harsh
 
  • #3
We don't know what your experiement is, but generally if you want a data spread you (a) increase the number of sample points and (b) increase/decrease the distance (call it distance, span or delta...whatever) between successive values as desired.

So if you want a spread in mass, you could just add more mass...or to be more precise, add more weight (since you can't determine mass accurately anyway :tongue2:). Oh well, that's perhaps the most hopeless advice I can give you under the circumstances.

Advantages/Disadvantages? We don't know that until we know the objective of your investigation.

Cheers
 

What is the purpose of a simple investigative experiment?

The purpose of a simple investigative experiment is to explore a specific question or hypothesis and gather evidence through observation and controlled testing.

What are the basic steps involved in a simple investigative experiment?

The basic steps involved in a simple investigative experiment include identifying a question or hypothesis, designing and carrying out a controlled experiment, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on the results.

What is the difference between an experiment and an observational study?

An experiment involves actively manipulating variables and controlling for outside factors, while an observational study involves simply observing and recording data without any manipulation.

How do you ensure the reliability and validity of a simple investigative experiment?

Reliability can be ensured by repeating the experiment multiple times and obtaining consistent results. Validity can be ensured by controlling for extraneous variables, using a large and diverse sample, and using appropriate methods of data collection and analysis.

What are some potential sources of error in a simple investigative experiment?

Potential sources of error in a simple investigative experiment can include human error, equipment malfunction, extraneous variables, and biased data collection or analysis.

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