Scientific Method, Controlled Studies, and Challenges Facing Society

Vocabulary flashcards covering the steps of the scientific method, controlled experimental designs, modern scientific challenges, climate change, biodiversity loss, and emerging diseases based on the lecture material.

Experimental variable

The single condition in a scientific experiment that is altered while all other conditions are kept constant.

Control group

The group in a study that receives a placebo or standard treatment rather than the experimental treatment, serving as a baseline for comparison.

Scientific theory

Accepted explanations for how the natural world works, representing the ultimate goal of science.

Technology

The application of scientific knowledge for a practical purpose, enabling humans to alter organisms and ecosystems to address societal needs.

Climate change

An environmental issue caused primarily by an imbalance in the chemical cycling of carbon, resulting in more carbon dioxide released than ecosystems can remove.

Biodiversity

The variation in life on Earth, referring to the total numbers of different species.

Extinction

The death of an entire species or taxonomical group, with an estimated $38\%$ of all species in danger of extinction by the end of this century.

Emerging diseases

Infectious diseases that are relatively new to humans, such as avian influenza, swine flu, and severe acute respiratory syndrome.