Biological Science Overview

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to biological science, including concepts of scientific methods, biological hierarchies, types of bonds, and lipid and protein structures.

Science Fiction

A genre of fiction that explores imaginative and futuristic concepts.

Bad Science

Research that is flawed yet attempts to adhere to scientific methods; may be biased or poorly designed.

Pseudoscience

Claims or beliefs that are falsely presented as scientific; lacks empirical evidence and scientific rigor.

Biological Hierarchy

The organization of biological systems, ranging from atoms and cells to organisms and ecosystems.

Covalent Bond

A strong bond formed when atoms share electrons to achieve stability.

Ionic Bond

An attraction between oppositely charged ions, forming an ionic compound.

Hydrogen Bond

A weak bond formed between a hydrogen atom of one molecule and a more electronegative atom of another.

pH Scale

A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, determined by the concentration of hydrogen ions.

Macromolecules

Large biological molecules, including carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids, formed from smaller subunits called monomers.

Eukaryotic Cells

Complex cells that contain a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Prokaryotic Cells

Simpler cells that lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Isotopes

Atoms of the same element that have different numbers of neutrons and thus different mass numbers.

Valence Electrons

Electrons in the outermost shell of an atom, determining its bonding behavior.

Nucleic Acids

Polymers made of nucleotide monomers; includes DNA and RNA.

Proteins

Biological macromolecules made of amino acids, essential for structure, function, and regulation of the body’s tissues and organs.

Lipids

Hydrophobic molecules, important for storing energy and forming cell membranes, but not true polymers.