How is data collected and used in science?

Week 3

This week, we will discuss how data is used in science. To prepare for class, please read the NYC Water Supply Report 2021. You may focus only on pages 10 to 16.


Before the start of class, please submit answers to the following in about a paragraph:

  1. In a few sentences, please describe the meaning of NYSDOH MCL.

  2. Are there any violations, as per the report? If so, please do some research on the possible consequences of ingesting significant quantities of this contaminant.

  3. Find the contaminant tested which has the lowest number of samples.

Data Activity: to be done in class

On the left side, there is a clickable picture which links to the applet Data Explorer.

In this activity, we will import our own data into the above-mentioned applet. First, please download this template file. It opens in Excel and Numbers.

Please go to this page to find past weather data throughout the United States. Please click on the map to select a location (any location you like is fine), and then select "Monthly Summarized Data". The variable should be "Avg temp", and the data range should start in 1950 and end in the current year.

Paste your data into the template file linked to above; then, import it into the Data Explorer applet.

Create a plot of mean annual temperature of your chosen location, going back to 1950. Between scatterplot and line graph, which do you think is the most reasonable for this data? Why?

Make sure to include a proper title for the plot. Under the tab "Analyze", produce a linear regression. Please note the regression equation.

Create a PowerPoint presentation of your plot and linear regression data. Try to answer the following questions:

  1. What can you say about the change in the mean annual temperature in your chosen location, from 1950 until today?

  2. What can you say about the mean annual temperature in the future, in your chosen location?

Your presentation must include an introduction, results section, and a conclusion.

Submit this presentation below.

Submit the assignments

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