Dual Credit Biology Chapter 1: Introduction to Biology

A complete set of vocabulary flashcards covering the introductory concepts of biology, including scientific method, reasoning types, and biological classification systems.

Independent variable (IV)

The factor in an experiment that you change; the variable that is being manipulated.

Dependent variable (DV)

The factor in an experiment that you measure; it depends on the changes made to the independent variable.

Constants

The factors in an experiment that stay the same to ensure a fair test.

Control group

The comparison group in an experiment that does not receive the experimental treatment.

Basic science

Science that aims to expand knowledge and understanding of the world, such as studying a cell process.

Applied science

Science that uses existing knowledge to solve a specific, practical problem, such as developing a medical treatment.

Peer-reviewed articles

Scientific articles evaluated by experts in the field before publication to check methods, evidence, reasoning, and scientific quality.

Binomial Nomenclature

A two-part naming system for species consisting of a capitalized Genus and a lowercase species name, which are italicized when typed.

Morphology

The study of the form and structure of an organism, focusing on what it looks like and how it is built.

Hypothesis

A testable explanation or prediction for a scientific question.

Theory

A broad explanation of a natural phenomenon that is strongly supported by a large body of evidence.

Law

A scientific statement that describes a consistent natural pattern or relationship.

Inductive reasoning

A form of logical thinking that uses specific observations to arrive at a general conclusion.

Deductive reasoning

A form of logical thinking that starts with a general rule and predicts a specific result.

Properties of Life

The major characteristics of living things: organization, response to stimuli, homeostasis, energy use/metabolism, growth and development, reproduction, and adaptation/evolution.

Biological Organization

The hierarchy of life from smallest to largest: Atom, Molecule, Organelle, Cell, Tissue, Organ, Organ System, Organism, Population, Community, Ecosystem, and Biosphere.

Biological Classification

The hierarchy of classification from broadest to most specific: Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species.

Three Domains of Life

The highest level of biological classification consisting of Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.