Bio 110 Lab Manual Notes — Scientific Method & Drosophila Wing Lab (Intro & Framework)

Conceptual Framework of Science

• Empirical vs. non-empirical sciences: Biology, chemistry, physics are empirical and rely on observations and measurements to describe, explain, predict phenomena.
• Observation as the foundation: All biological knowledge is based on observations recorded by scientists using senses and instruments that extend perception (the so-called Doors of Perception).
• Instrumentation extends perception: Microscopes, telescopes, and other devices broaden the range of detectable phenomena beyond the naked eye.
• Limits of human perception: Humans cannot directly sense all wavelengths or forms of energy (e.g., infrared ext{nm}
  ightarrow ext{not detectable by naked eye}; ultraviolet ext{nm}
  ightarrow ext{not detectable by naked eye}).
• Examples of sensory extension and natural perception: Magnetism aided by compasses; some animals (e.g., pigeons) may sense the earth's magnetic field.
• Dependence on sensory data: From the outset, scientists recognize their reliance on sensory information to interpret reality.
• Significance: Recognizing perceptual limits motivates development of tools and methods to obtain valid data.