Evolutionary Theory and The Process of Science

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the lecture notes on evolutionary theory and the scientific process.

Evolutionary Theory

Explains how organisms evolve over time through mechanisms such as natural selection.

Natural Selection

The process by which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Linnaeus

Scientist who attempted to organize and classify the diversity of life through a system of naming (binomial nomenclature).

Binomial Nomenclature

A two-part naming system for species, consisting of the genus and a specific epithet.

Inductive Reasoning

A scientific method of gathering evidence and data to formulate a hypothesis.

Deductive Reasoning

A scientific method where a hypothesis is formulated and then tested through research and experiments.

Pseudoscience

A belief or practice that is claimed to be scientific but lacks supporting evidence and is often based on bias.

Abductive Reasoning

A form of reasoning that begins with an observation or question and leads to various possible explanations.

Malthusian Theory

An observation that populations tend to produce more offspring than the environment can support, leading to competition.

Species

A group of organisms that share common structural differences and traits, which can affect their survival and adaptation.