GCSE Biology Required Practicals Overview

These flashcards cover important vocabulary terms related to the GCSE Biology required practicals for AQA, helping students prepare for their exams.

Independent Variable

The variable that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment to test its effects on the dependent variable.

Dependent Variable

The variable that is measured and affected in the experiment as a result of changes in the independent variable.

Control Variables

Variables that are kept constant throughout an experiment to ensure that results are valid and accurate.

Parallax Error

An error that occurs when the measurement is read from an angle rather than directly in line with the scale.

Mean

The average value calculated by adding all measurements together and dividing by the number of measurements.

Aseptic Technique

Methods used to prevent contamination by unwanted microorganisms during experiments.

Optimum Temperature

The temperature at which an enzyme's activity is highest.

Geotropism

The growth of a plant in response to the direction of gravity.

Phototropism

The growth of a plant in response to light direction.

Centrifuge

A piece of equipment used to separate components of a mixture based on density.

Bunsen Burner

A gas burner used in laboratories to provide a flame.

Graticule

A tiny ruler placed on the microscope slide used for measuring the size of specimens.

Syringe

A common piece of laboratory equipment used to measure and transfer liquids.

Staining

The process of applying a dye to cells or tissues to enhance visibility under a microscope.

Incubate

To keep microorganisms or cells under controlled environmental conditions for development.

Ethanol Test

A method to detect lipids; a positive result causes the solution to go cloudy.