Chapter 1, Problem 13STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

In the given experiment, a feature that should be kept constant needs to be identified. Also, the reason to keep this feature constant needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The action of measuring the size or quantity of anything is defined as a measurement. A measure of hotness plus coldness of something is described as temperature.

A quest to discover the solution to a question by practicing the scientific method (or process) is described as scientific investigation or experiment.

Answer to Problem 13STP

Features that should be constant are volume of water, temperature of water, and mass of added sugar. To receive accurate result of the experiment, it is important to keep these features constant.

Explanation of Solution

A variable being measured (or tested) in a scientific investigation\experiment called dependent variable. A variable that is controlled in a scientific experiment/investigation to examine the effects on the dependent variable called an independent variable.

In the given experiment, an amount of time needed for dissolving is defined as a dependent variable. In short, it is the amount of period needed for dissolving. The quantity of sugar (crushed) before it is added, defined as an independent variable.

Sugar cubes, Sugar crystals, or crushed sugar (particle size) are an independent variable whereas, rate of dissolving sugar is dependent variable. So, volume of water, temperature of water, and mass of added sugar are the features that should be constant. Otherwise outcome of experiment will vary.

In any experiment, if factors are not constant (or keep changing) then the researcher (or scientific investigator) will not be able to evaluate the effect and outcome of that experiment.

Conclusion

In any scientific investigation, factors have to constant. If factors will be not constant then it may change the outcomes of that scientific investigation.