UNIT 1: Scientist’s Tools
Section 1.1 Observations & Measurement
Taking Observations
Qualitative Data
Quantitative Data
Qualitative data
 Clear vs. Colorless
 Colorless does not describe transparency
Clear
Cloudy
Words to
Describe
Transparency
Opaque
SELF CHECK: Describe the following in terms of transparency words & colors
1. Cherry Kool-Aid __________________________
2. Milk : ___________________________
3. Water: ____________________________
Gathering Data
 Quantitative measurements use the metric system; see chart for common
measurements
Measurement
Mass
Volume
Temperature
Length
Time
Instrument
Units
Making Measurements
 A measuring instrument can
have different calibrations.
 The more lines on an
instrument, the more
_____________ an instrument and
the better a measurement.
Uncertainty in Measurement
Every measurement has a degree of uncertainty
 the last number you write down is an estimated number
 Write down a “5” if it’s in-between lines
 Write down a “0” if it’s on the line
 Remember: Always read liquid levels from the bottom of the
_________________________ (the bubble at the top)
 The volume of the liquid : ___________ml
Example: Measure the length of the following rulers.
Ruler A : _________cm
Ruler B: _________cm
Example: Measure the temperature on the thermometer. _____________