Introduction to Science and Biology Vocabulary

These vocabulary flashcards define key concepts in scientific methodology and the characteristics of life based on the provided lecture notes.

Science

A distinctive way of gaining knowledge about the natural world that starts with a question and then tries to answer the question using evidence and logic.

Scientific Law

A statement that describes what always happens under certain conditions in nature.

Observation

Anything that is detected through human senses or with instruments or measuring devices that extend human senses.

Scientific Investigation

A systematic approach to answering questions about the physical and natural world.

Scientific Method

A cycle of scientific investigation that comprises of observation, questioning, hypothesizing, experimenting, analyzing, and making conclusions.

Hypothesis

A possible answer to a scientific question.

Falsifiable

It must be possible to subject the hypothesis to a test that generates evidence for or against it.

Data (singular, datum)

Essentially just observations.

Evidence

Any type of data that may be used to test a hypothesis.

Theory

After many experiments provide results supporting a hypothesis, the hypothesis becomes a theory. Theories remain theories forever, and are constantly being retested with every experiment and observation. Theories can never become fact or law.

Law

A mathematical relationship that exists between observations under a given set of conditions.

Scientific Theory

A broad explanation for events. To become a theory, an explanation must be strongly supported by a great deal of evidence.

Homeostasis

The condition in which a system is maintained in a more-or-less steady state.

Cell

The basic unit of the structure and function of living things, the building blocks of living organisms.

Metabolism

The building up and breaking down of chemical compounds.

Anabolism

Form of metabolism in which living things can transform energy by building up large molecules from smaller ones.

Catabolism

Form of metabolism in which living things can also break down, or decompose, large organic molecules into smaller ones.

Growth

An increase in size that occurs when there is a higher rate of anabolism than catabolism.

Adaptation

A characteristic that helps living things survive and reproduce in a given environment.

Evolution

A change in the characteristics of living things over time.

Reproduction

The process by which living things give rise to offspring.

Cell Theory

All living things are made of cells, and living cells come only from other living cells.

Gene Theory

The characteristics of living things are controlled by genes, which are passed from parents to their offspring.