Chapter 1: Learning About Life Vocabulary

Biology

The study of life.

Controlled Experiment

An experiment in which hypotheses are tested by comparing a control group with experimental group(s).

Independent Variable

The single variable in an experiment that differs between groups, which the control group lacks.

Dependent Variable

The variable in an experiment that is observed or measured to look for an effect.

Controlled Variables

All variables in an experiment that are held constant across groups.

Scientific Method

A formal process of inquiry consisting of a series of steps including observation, question, hypothesis, prediction, and experiment.

Hypothesis

A tentative or proposed explanation for an observation, functioning as an idea on trial.

Quantitative Data

Numerical observations presented in a data table or graph form.

Qualitative Data

Observations described in tables, diagrams, drawings, or in narrative style.

Discussion

The section of an experimental report that explains why data appeared as it did, analyzing trends using math such as mean, median, mode, % error, % deviation, and % change.

Theory

A concept broader in scope than a hypothesis and more comprehensive, supported by extensive and varied evidence, and capable of tying together previously unrelated observations.

Fact

A piece of information considered to be objectively true based on current evidence.

Exploration

The initial stage in biological study involving asking questions, seeking information, and collecting verifiable observations and measurements.

Seven Properties of Life

The seven traits shared by all living organisms: Regulation, Order, Growth & Development, Energy Utilization, Reproduction, Evolution, and Response to Environment.

Three Domains of Life

The overarching classifications of life, consisting of Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.

Micro- (µ)

A metric prefix representing a value of $0.000001$.

Nano- (n)