The Science of Biology Exhaustive Study Guide (copy)

Science

A systematic method of studying and understanding the natural world through observation, inquiry, and evidence-based investigation.

Biology

The scientific study of life, living organisms, and their interactions with the environment.

Observation

Information directly gathered using the human senses or scientific measuring equipment.

Inference

A logical interpretation, conclusion, or explanation derived from prior knowledge and direct observations.

Qualitative Data

Descriptive, non-numerical measurements or observations capturing qualities such as color, texture, shape, or appearance.

Quantitative Data

Numerical measurements, counts, or calculations involving specific values and standard units of measurement.

Independent Variable (IV)

The specific factor or condition intentionally manipulated or changed by the experimenter.

Dependent Variable (DV)

The factor observed, measured, or recorded to assess the effect of the independent variable.

Control Group

The baseline comparison group that is held under normal conditions or does not receive the experimental treatment.

Experimental Group(s)

The group or groups subjected to the specific treatment, condition, or modification being tested.

Hypothesis

A tentative, testable prediction or proposed explanation for a specific phenomenon.

Scientific Theory

A comprehensive explanation of natural phenomena backed by extensive empirical evidence.

Scientific Law

A concise mathematical statement describing an unyielding pattern or relationship observed in nature.

Replication

The independent repetition of an experimental procedure by separate researchers to confirm results.

Peer Review

Formal evaluation of a researcher's methodology and conclusions by independent experts in the same discipline.

Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER)

A framework consisting of a concise statement (claim), supporting data (evidence), and a justification (reasoning).

Homeostasis

Active maintenance of stable internal physiological conditions despite fluctuating external environments.

Adaptation and Evolution

Genetic change within a population over generations that improves environmental fitness.

Experimental Error

Limitations, inaccuracies, or procedural mistakes that introduce unexpected variability into experimental outcomes.

Constants (Controlled Variables)

All physical factors and environmental conditions kept identical across all experimental and control groups.