Introducing Physical and Chemical Change
Scientists often discover information about the world around them by carrying out experiments. Experimenting involves not only doing something in the laboratory but also observing carefully what happens, recording what is observed, and suggesting reasons to explain why things are happening. In this topic you will be concentrating on practicing these skills.

Observations are things or events that are noticed. A good observer uses all the senses, not just sight. See how good an observer you can be.

(NOTE: Chemists rarely use their sense of taste in the laboratory - it could be dangerous. Few early chemists reached retirement age.)

A good scientist makes a careful record of what is observed.

Scientists also try to explain why things happen in terms of what they see and what they already know.
 
 

For all these activities keep a simple record of your observations and explanations.


 

Next Page: Evidence of Chemical Changes

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