Unit One-Part One - Nature of Science

25 vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the notes on the Nature of Science and the Scientific Method.

Nature of Science

Dynamic, testable study of the natural world; relies on data and evidence rather than faith or belief.

Scientific Method

A method for studying nature and designing experiments; involves observation, inference, model-building, hypothesis, testing, and evaluation.

Elaboration

Science is changeable; conclusions must access data and be proven or revised.

Data

Facts and measurements gathered from observations used to support explanations.

Induction

Reasoning from repeated observations to general patterns or laws.

Parsimony

The simplest explanation is preferred when multiple explanations fit the data.

Phylogenetic Tree

Diagram of relationships among organisms based on shared traits or DNA; used to choose the simplest relatedness.

Inference

A generalization drawn from observations; not itself an observation.

Generalization

A broad conclusion drawn from observed patterns or data.

Black Swan

Cygnus atratus; a real counterexample to the rule 'all swans are white,' illustrating induction’s limits.

Model (Scientific Model)

A simplified explanation linking inferences to observations; refined as new data becomes available.

Hypothesis

A testable educated explanation that can be evaluated with data.

Testable

Capable of being tested or falsified through experiments or measurements.

Theory

A well-supported framework explaining a set of phenomena; can be revised; not a guaranteed fact.

Law (Scientific)

A statement with mathematical backing describing a consistent relationship; high certainty, often predictive.

Self-Correcting Nature of Science

Science updates or replaces models when new, valid data contradicts earlier ideas.

Peer Review

Evaluation of research by experts before publication to ensure quality and validity.

Experimental Design

Planning experiments to minimize bias and clearly define independent, dependent, and controlled variables; includes replication.

Independent Variable

The variable deliberately changed by the researcher.

Dependent Variable

The variable measured to assess the effect of the independent variable.

Confounding Variable

An uncontrolled factor that can bias results and obscure true relationships.

Replicates

Repeated trials or samples to reduce random error and detect outliers.

Eutrophication

Nutrient enrichment of water leading to algal blooms and oxygen depletion.

Amphibians as Bioindicators

Amphibians’ permeable skin and life cycles make them sensitive indicators of environmental health.

Vernal Pond

Temporary ponds that dry part of the year; amphibians breed there and drought can affect offspring.