Back
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

prediction

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

A prediction is a statement about what you think will happen in the future, based on what you know about the past and the present.

In science, predictions are often made based on scientific theories and models. Scientific theories are well-tested explanations of how the universe works. Scientific models are simplified representations of reality that can be used to make predictions.

For example, scientists can use the theory of gravity to predict the motion of planets and stars. They can also use climate models to predict the future of the Earth's climate.

Predictions are an important part of science. They allow us to test theories and models, and they help us to make decisions about the future.

Here are some of the benefits of making predictions:

  • They can help us to understand the world around us.
  • They can help us to make better decisions.
  • They can help us to plan for the future.

Here are some of the challenges of making predictions:

  1. The future is uncertain.
  2. We may not have all the information we need to make an accurate prediction.
  3. Our predictions may be wrong.

Despite the challenges, making predictions is an important part of science. It allows us to learn more about the world around us and to make better decisions about the future.

How can the word be used?

The doctor predicted that the patient would make a full recovery.

prediction

Different forms of the word

Noun: a statement about the future that is made on the basis of evidence and reasoning.

Verb: to state or forecast the probable occurrence of something.

Etymology

The word "prediction" comes from the Latin word "praedicō", which means "to declare beforehand".

The first recorded use of the word "prediction" in English was in the 14th century.

Question

Why is it helpful to predict what might happen?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the importance of making predictions in scientific investigations and experiments. Provide examples of how predictions are formulated based on prior knowledge and how they contribute to the scientific process.

Answer:

Predictions hold a crucial role in scientific investigations and experiments as they guide research and hypothesis testing. They are formulated based on existing knowledge, observations, and data analysis, and they help scientists develop hypotheses that can be tested through experimentation.

For instance, in physics, predictions about how different masses will affect the speed of a falling object allow scientists to set up experiments to test gravitational acceleration. In biology, predictions about the effects of a specific drug on cellular activity guide the design of experiments to validate those predictions.

Predictions contribute to the scientific process by providing a framework for designing controlled experiments. They allow researchers to anticipate outcomes and gather data that can either support or refute their hypotheses. If predictions align with experimental results, they provide evidence for the validity of a scientific principle. If predictions are disproven, scientists can refine their understanding and formulate new hypotheses for further investigation.