Biology 1113; Lecture 2 (scientific method/chemistry of life) Flashcards
Scientific Method
Systematic approach to studying the world.
Cyclical Process
Steps repeat in a continuous cycle.
Observation
Initial step; gathering information through senses.
Question
Inquiry based on observations made.
Hypothesis
Tentative explanation that is testable and falsifiable.
Prediction
Statement of expected outcome if hypothesis is true.
Testing
Conducting experiments to validate or refute hypothesis.
Conclusions
Results derived from testing a hypothesis.
Peer Review
Evaluation of research by other scientists.
Independent Variable
Factor manipulated to observe effects.
Dependent Variable
Factor measured to assess changes.
Control Group
Group not receiving treatment for comparison.
Placebo
Inactive substance resembling treatment.
Blind Experiment
Subjects unaware of treatment received.
Double Blind Experiment
Neither subjects nor experimenters know treatment.
Confounding Variables
Uncontrolled factors affecting dependent variable.
Experimental Study
Research applying treatments to measure effects.
Observational Study
Research comparing groups without treatment application.
Chemical Bonds
Links formed between atoms in molecules.
Covalent Bonds
Atoms share electron pairs in bonds.
Polar Covalent Bonds
Unequal sharing of electrons creates partial charges.
Nonpolar Covalent Bonds
Equal sharing of electrons; molecule neutral.
Electronegativity
Tendency of an atom to attract electrons.
Atoms
Smallest unit with properties of an element.
Ions
Atoms with unequal protons and electrons.
Matter
Substance composed of elements.
Life Elements
96% of life consists of C, O, N, H.
Biological Molecules
Molecules primarily composed of carbon and hydrogen.
