Inductive vs Deductive Reasoning and Scientific Process (Lecture Recap)

Flashcards covering inductive/deductive reasoning, the scientific process, experimental design, variables, theory vs hypothesis, genetic concepts, and foundational chemistry/biology concepts from the lecture.

What is the point of the scientific process and why does order matter?

To answer questions about the natural world; the process follows a sequence: observation, question, hypothesis, prediction, experiment, data analysis, and conclusion.

What comes directly after an observation in the scientific process?

Formulating a question to investigate what was observed.

In the scientific process, what typically follows a question?

A hypothesis — an educated guess that guides the study.

What is a hypothesis?

An educated guess that can be tested to prove or disprove a concept and to drive the research design.

What is a prediction in science?

A testable statement about what will happen if the hypothesis is correct.

What is the next step after hypotheses and predictions?

Design and conduct an experiment to test the predictions.

What is a control group?

A group that receives no manipulation and serves as a baseline for comparison.

What is an experimental group?

One or more groups that receive the manipulation being tested.

What is an independent variable?

The variable deliberately changed or manipulated in the experiment.

What is a dependent variable?

The variable measured to assess the effect of the independent variable.

Where are the independent and dependent variables plotted on a graph?

Independent variable on the x-axis; dependent variable on the y-axis.

What is deductive reasoning in science?

Using established theories or principles to predict outcomes or guide research in a new context.

What is inductive reasoning in science?

Using observations and data to derive a new theory.

What is the difference between a hypothesis and a scientific theory?

A hypothesis is a testable educated guess; a theory is a well-supported, widely accepted explanation.

What is a provisional theory?

A tentative theory accepted temporarily until new evidence shows it is wrong.

Name two unifying theories discussed in the lecture.

Cell theory and gene theory (evolution was described as a key concept).

What is a karyotype?

A picture of chromosomes used to detect genetic disorders, such as trisomy.

What is trisomy 21?

Down syndrome; presence of an extra chromosome on chromosome 21.

What are CHON elements and their significance?

Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen, and Nitrogen; together they make up about 96% of living matter.

What are trace elements?

Elements required in very small amounts but essential for life.

How is the periodic table organized and why is it useful in biology?

Organized by groups with similar properties; helps identify element relationships and count protons, neutrons, and electrons.

What are subatomic particles and where are they located?

Electrons orbit the nucleus; protons and neutrons reside in the nucleus.

What is the atomic number?

The number of protons (and, for neutral atoms, electrons).

What is the mass number?

Total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.

How do you calculate the number of neutrons?

Neutrons = mass number minus atomic number.

What are the charges of the three subatomic particles?

Electrons are negative, protons are positive, neutrons are neutral.

What are electron orbitals?

Regions around the nucleus where electrons are likely to be found.

What is the difference between mass and weight?

Mass is the amount of matter and is constant; weight depends on gravity and can change.

What sex chromosomes determine biological sex in humans?

Male: XY; Female: XX.

What is the cell theory in biology?

All organisms are composed of cells; cells are the basic unit of life.

What is the gene theory?

DNA carries genetic information; genes determine inherited traits and guide protein synthesis.

What is the theory of evolution?

Change in a species over time driven by variation, adaptation, and natural selection.

What is a hypothesis vs. a theory in terms of testing and evidence?

A hypothesis is a testable educated guess; a theory is a well-supported explanation that has withstood extensive testing.

What is a provisional theory and why does it matter?

A semi-theory accepted as true until new evidence shows it is wrong; science revises theories as new data emerge.

What is a karyotype used to detect besides sex determination?

Genetic disorders such as trisomies; it shows chromosome number and structure.

What is the role of observation in inductive vs. deductive reasoning?

Observation provides data and triggers questions; inductive reasoning builds theory from data, while deductive reasoning applies existing theories to new cases.

What is data analysis in the scientific process?

The systematic examination of data to determine whether results support or refute the hypothesis and to draw conclusions.

What study strategies were recommended in the notes?

Review PowerPoints, practice active recall, explain concepts to someone else to test understanding, and use office hours for support.