Unit 1 – Nature of Science: Key Terms (Vocabulary)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from Unit 1 notes, including the scientific method, biology basics, evolution, and classification.

Scientific Method

A secular, systematic process for answering questions about the natural world, involving observation, hypothesis, testing, evaluation of results, and reformulation; uses empirical observations.

Observation

The act of noticing and describing events or processes used in the scientific method.

Hypothesis

A testable, falsifiable statement about a phenomenon that can be tested by experimentation or observation.

Testing of Hypothesis

Conducting experiments and further observations to determine whether results support or falsify the hypothesis.

Evaluation of Results

Assessing data to determine if the hypothesis is confirmed or falsified, possibly leading to reformulation.

Empirical Observations

Observations derived from evidence gathered through senses or instruments, not just theory.

Falsifiable

Capable of being proven false through testing or observation; a requirement for a scientific hypothesis.

Fact

An aspect of reality that can be verified by observation or measurement and is supported by evidence.

Theory

A well-supported, widely accepted explanation of a natural phenomenon; not proven in an absolute sense.

DNA

The genetic material that codes for the characteristics of life’s structure and function.

Cell

The basic unit of structure and function in life.

Metabolism

The set of chemical processes by which organisms convert energy from the environment to grow, maintain, and reproduce.

Evolution

Change over time in the characteristics and types of life forms, driven by genetic changes.

Natural Selection

The mechanism by which populations evolve traits that improve survival and reproductive success.

Adaptations

Heritable traits that increase an organism’s fitness in a given environment.

Artificial Selection

Human-directed selection that mimics natural selection, used in breeding crops and domesticated animals.

Domestication

Long-term selection and breeding with controlled reproduction to pass on desired DNA traits.

Biological Hierarchy of Life

A progression from simple to complex life: chemicals → cells → tissues → organs → organ systems → multicellular organisms → populations → species → community → ecosystem → biosphere.

Producers/Autotrophs

Organisms (like some bacteria, protists, algae, plants) that make their own energy-rich organic compounds, often via photosynthesis.

Consumers/Heterotrophs

Organisms that obtain energy and building material by consuming organic matter from producers.

Food Chain

The sequence of energy transfer from producers to consumers and decomposers in an ecosystem.

Linnaean Classification

A hierarchical system for naming and classifying life forms into broad to specific groups (e.g., Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species).

Binomial Nomenclature

The two-part scientific name of a species, consisting of the genus name and the species epithet.