Chapter 1 Vocab - Scientific Method & Experiments

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key biology and scientific terms from the notes.

Observation

The act of noticing and describing events or processes carefully.

Inference

A logical interpretation based on what scientists already know.

Hypothesis

A tentative scientific explanation that can be tested by further observation or experimentation.

Controlled Experiment

An experiment in which only one variable is changed to test a hypothesis.

Independent Variable

The variable deliberately changed by the experimenter.

Dependent Variable

The variable observed and measured; it changes in response to the independent variable.

Control Group

The group that experiences the same conditions as the experimental group except for changes in the independent variable.

Data

Facts and statistics collected for analysis. Quantitative data are numbers; qualitative data are descriptions and characteristics.

Theory

A well-tested, highly reliable scientific explanation of natural events that incorporates repeated observations and a well-supported hypothesis.

Bias

A personal, non-scientific point of view for or against something.

Biology

The study of living things.

Sexual Reproduction

The process in which cells from two different parents produce the first cell of a new organism.

Asexual Reproduction

The process in which the organism has a single parent.

DNA

A genetic code that determines the inherited traits of every organism on Earth.

Metabolism

The combination of chemical reactions that enable life processes in an organism.

Stimulus

A signal to which an organism responds.

Homeostasis

A relatively constant set of conditions in the body.

Evolve

To change over time.