L1 Intro Ecology Enzyme

Scientific method

Qualitative

Quantitative

A systematic process used to investigate observations, form and test hypotheses, analyze data, and draw conclusions to understand natural phenomena

Recorded descriptions

Numerical measurement, organized into tables and graphs

Independent variable

Dependent variable

Hypothesis

Prediction

Single variable manipulated by researchers

Variable(s) predicted to be affected in response

Falsifiable potential explanation based on observation/assumption that leads to testable prediction and motivating experiments

Description of an expected outcome in test group and control group that suggests hypothesis may be right/wrong but doesn’t prove either way

Positive control

Negative control

Why use controls?

Group that receives experimental treatment and is expected to have an effect

Group that doesn’t receive experimental treatment and is expected to have no effect

To make sure experiment isn’t biased and avoids confounding variables

Dilutions

Serial Dilutuions

de Wit Replacement Series

Reduce concentration of a substance

Each new dilution uses previous dilution as source

Two species are grown together in varying proportions but at a constant total density to assess their competitive interactions.