Processes of Science and the Scientific Method Flashcards

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers the fundamental definitions of the scientific method, experimental design, characteristics of life, and the mechanisms of homeostasis and feedback loops based on the lecture notes.

Science

The observation, identification, description, experimental investigation, and theoretical explanation of natural phenomena.

Observation

Qualitative or quantitative information gathered through the use of the five senses (sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch).

Interpretation (Inference)

An attempt to put meaning into an observation, which can sometimes be biased by expectations and prior knowledge.

Experiment

A test or a procedure that is carried out in order to discover a result.

Hypothesis

A single, unproven assumption that attempts to explain why nature behaves in a specific manner; it is often narrow in scope and tentative.

Theory

A set of hypotheses that ties together a large number of observations into a logically consistent and understandable pattern; it is a tested, refined, and expanded explanation.

Independent Variable

The manipulated variable in an experiment, representing what is being tested.

Dependent Variable

The responding variable in an experiment, representing the results of the testing.

Control Group

A standard against which other conditions can be compared during an experiment.

Experimental Group

The group in an experiment in which the independent variable is manipulated.

Valid Experiment

An experiment where the data collected measures what it set out to measure, the conclusion is strong, bias is minimized, and it makes accurate predictions.

Reliable Experiment

An experiment characterized by consistency, meaning another random group would yield the same results if repeated.

Biology

The scientific study of life.

Unicellular

An organism that is made of only a single cell.

Multicellular

An organism that is composed of many cells.

Anabolism

A metabolic process that makes complex substances from simpler ones and requires energy; an example is photosynthesis.

Catabolism

A metabolic process that breaks down complex substances into simpler ones and releases energy; an example is digestion.

Metabolism

The total sum of all chemical reactions that occur in the body.

Asexual Reproduction

A mode of reproduction that requires only one organism to produce offspring.

Sexual Reproduction

A mode of reproduction that requires two cells from different individuals.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a relatively constant and stable internal environment in the body, such as a blood pH of $7.4$ and a body temperature of $37\,^{\circ}\text{C}$.

Negative Feedback Loop

An opposing feedback mechanism that fixes a problem by counteracting the response to a stimulus.

Hypothalamus

The brain control center that monitors body conditions, such as temperature, and regulates osmotic pressure.

Positive Feedback

A feedback mechanism that does not stop the response to a stimulus but instead increases or amplifies the response.

Oxytocin

A hormone released by the pituitary gland during childbirth that causes uterine contractions, leading to a positive feedback cycle.