Ch.1 The Study of Life Flashcards
Biology
The study of life.
Natural Sciences
Field of science that is related to the physical world and it’s phenomena processes (astronomy, physics, chemistry, earth sciences, biology).
Scientific Method steps
- Make observation
- Ask a question
- Form a hypothesis that answers the question
- Make a prediction based on the hypothesis
- Do an experiment to test the hypothesis
- Analyze the results
- Report results
Hypothesis
Suggested explanation for an observation, which one can test. Must be falsifiable
Inductive Reasoning
Form of logical thinking that uses related observations to arrive at a general conclusion. Common in descriptive science (aims to observe, explore, and discover).
Deductive Reasoning
Form of logical thinking that uses a general inclusive statement to forecast specific results. Type of logic used in hypothesis-based science (begins with specific question or problem and a potential answer or solution that one can test).
Basic Science
“Pure” science. Seeks to expand knowledge regardless of the short-term application of that knowledge.
Applied Science
“Technology.” Aims to use science to solve real-world problems.
Peer Reviewed Manuscript IMRaD format
(Title, author, abstract, key words), introduction, materials and methods, results, discussion/conclusion, (acknowledgement & references).
Properties of Life
Order, sensitivity or response to the environment, reproduction, adaption, growth & development, regulation/homeostasis, energy processing, and evolution.
Organization of Living Things
Atoms
Molecules
Macromolecules
Organelles
Cells
Tissues
Organs
Organ Systems
Organisms
Populations
Communities
Ecosystem
Biosphere
Eukaryote
Organism with cells that have nuclei and membrane-bound organelles.
Prokaryote
Single-celled organism that lacks organelles and does not have nuclei surrounded by a nuclear membrane.
Evolution
The process of gradual change in a population or species over time.
Science
Knowledge that covers general truths or the operation of general laws, especially when acquired and tested by the scientific method.
Theory
Tested and confirmed explanation for observations or phenomena.
Variable
Part of an experiment that the experimenter can vary or change.
Cell
Smallest fundamental unit of structure and function in living things.
Control
Part of an experiment that does not change during the experiment.
Homeostasis
Ability of an organism to maintain constant internal conditions.
Organelles
Small structures that exist within cells and carry out cellular functions.
Phylogenetic Tree
Diagram showing the evolutionary relationships among various biological species based on similarities and differences in genetic or physical traits or both; in essence, a hypothesis concerning evolutionary connections.
First forms of life on earth…
Microorganisms
Poulation
All of the individuals of a species living within a specific area.
Community
Set of populations inhabiting a particular area.
Feedback loop
Biological mechanisms in which the living body’s internal stability is maintained depending on its response.
Positive feedback
Positive feedback is amplifying or magnifying the change or output. The response effect is magnified so that it can occur much faster. In this form of feedback, the output of the system is enhanced. In other words, in a positive feedback mechanism, the direction of the response is in the same direction as the initial change, resulting in a self-reinforcing loop. A good example of positive feedback involves the amplification of labor contractions. The contractions are initiated as the baby moves into position, stretching the cervix beyond its normal position. The feedback increases the strength and frequency of the contractions until the baby is born.
Negative feedback
The output is decreased or inhibited. In a negative feedback mechanism, the direction of the response is opposite to the direction of the initial change, resulting in a self-regulating loop. Examples of processes controlled by negative feedback include body temperature regulation and control of blood glucose.
