Meaning of Science Terms: Definitions, Examples, & Key Concepts

Lesson Overview

• Structural Science Terms
• Operational Science Terms
• Transportation Science Terms
• Railroad and Transit Science Terms
• Vehicle and Transit Science Terms

Science terms help us clearly understand and explain the world around us. Knowing these terms and their meanings allows students to communicate ideas effectively, enhance their scientific literacy, and confidently engage in discussions. This lesson provides detailed explanations, practical examples, and key concepts related to common science terms, aiming to build comprehensive knowledge for Grade 5 students.

Structural Science Terms

Here are some structural science terms:

Purlin

A purlin is a structural component in building construction. It is a horizontal beam used to support the roof structure. Typically, a purlin connects to rafters or trusses and helps evenly distribute the weight of the roof. Purlins are usually made of wood or steel.

Example: In a large building, steel purlins support heavy roofing materials, ensuring stability and preventing structural damage.

Importance: Purlins prevent sagging and provide the necessary support, contributing significantly to structural integrity.

Operational Science Terms

Here are some operational science terms:

Vigilance Device

A vigilance device is a safety mechanism designed to ensure that operators remain alert. This device requires active control and attention, and it is commonly used in transportation and machinery operations to prevent accidents.

Example: Trains use vigilance devices to ensure that train operators stay alert by requiring them to regularly press a button or respond to signals.

Importance: These devices help maintain safety standards by ensuring constant operator attention.

Intermodal

Intermodal transportation involves using multiple types of transportation methods to move goods or people efficiently.

Example: A shipment is transported via a truck to a train station, then moved by train to a seaport, and finally loaded onto a ship for international transport.

Importance: Intermodal transport reduces costs, improves efficiency, and offers flexibility in logistics.

Road Call

A road call refers to the breakdown of a vehicle during its operation, requiring roadside assistance or repairs.

Example: A city bus breaking down during its route, requiring maintenance crews to fix mechanical issues on-site.

Importance: Understanding road calls helps transportation agencies respond promptly to vehicle failures, reducing delays and ensuring passenger safety.

Booth Audit

A booth audit is a financial check conducted at booths or ticket counters to ensure proper management of funds.

Example: Supervisors at a transit station conducting regular audits to verify cash handling accuracy.

Importance: Booth audits detect discrepancies, prevent fraud, and ensure the financial integrity of operations.

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Transportation Science Terms

Here are some transportation science terms:

Reverse Commuting

Reverse commuting is traveling in the primary direction of traffic flow during peak hours.

Example: Employees living in cities traveling to jobs located in suburbs, contrary to the majority commuting pattern.

Importance: It reduces congestion, shortens commute times, and efficiently utilizes transportation resources.

Stabling

Stabling involves taking a vehicle out of regular service, typically for maintenance or storage.

Example: Trains are stabled overnight in a depot for cleaning and routine checks before resuming service the next day.

Importance: Stabling ensures vehicles are properly maintained and safe for public use.

Ground Tackle

Ground tackle consists of equipment used to anchor a vessel, securing it firmly in place.

Example: A ship anchoring in a harbor using heavy anchors and chains to prevent drifting.

Importance: Ground tackle ensures safe anchoring, preventing accidents and maintaining the vessel's stability.

Railroad and Transit Science Terms

Here are some railroad and transit science terms:

LIRR (Long Island Railroad)

The LIRR is a commuter rail system serving the Long Island area, connecting suburban communities to urban centers.

Example: Thousands of commuters use the LIRR daily to travel between Long Island and New York City.

Importance: It provides essential, reliable transport, reducing road traffic and enhancing mobility.

Headway

Headway is the interval or time gap between vehicles moving in the same direction on the same route.

Example: If buses arrive every 15 minutes, the headway between buses is 15 minutes.

Importance: Maintaining consistent headways ensures reliable service and reduces overcrowding on transportation systems.

Spur Track

A spur track is a secondary track branching from the main railway line, typically leading to a specific location like a warehouse or factory.

Example: Railways using spur tracks to deliver goods directly to a manufacturing plant.

Importance: Spur tracks provide efficient, direct access to key locations, facilitating the effective transportation of goods.

Vehicle and Transit Science Terms

Here are some vehicle and transit science terms:

Pullman Car

A Pullman car is a luxurious railway passenger car designed for comfortable overnight travel.

Example: Historically, Pullman cars offered sleeping compartments, dining areas, and luxury services on long-distance train journeys.

Importance: Pullman cars significantly improved the comfort of travel, encouraging longer journeys and enhancing passenger experiences.

Rapid Transit

Rapid transit refers to high-capacity transportation systems operating on exclusive pathways.

Example: Metro systems such as the London Underground or New York Subway run frequently without interference from other traffic.

Importance: Rapid transit provides efficient, reliable, and fast transportation, significantly reducing travel times within cities.

Circulator Bus

A circulator bus operates within a specific, limited area, serving particular localities or neighborhoods.

Example: Neighborhood circulator buses that connect residential areas to local shopping centers, schools, and transit stations.

Importance: These buses improve local accessibility and connectivity, enhancing community mobility.

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Meaning Of science terms