Chap 1: Exploring Life & Science Flashcards
what are the 6 characteristics of life?
- are organized
- acquire materials and energy
- are homeostatic
- respond to stimuli
- reproduce and potential for growth
- have an evolutionary history
levels of life (smallest to largest)
atom > molecule > cell > tissue > organ > organ system > organism > population > community > ecosystem > biosphere
what is metabolism?
all chemical reactions in a living thing that provide energy and maintain life
what is homeostasis and why is it important?
- Keeping internal conditions stable (e.g., body temperature, pH, blood sugar)
- Important so cells and organs function properly
what are the 3 domains of life? (BAE)
- Bacteria (single-celled, no nucleus)
- Archaea (like bacteria but live in extreme conditions)
- Eukarya (cells with a nucleus—plants, animals, fungi, protists)
what are the 6 steps to scientific method?
(OQHEDC)
Observation
Question
Hypothesis
Experiment
Data Collection
Conclusion
Hypothesis vs. Prediction
Hypothesis: A testable explanation
Prediction: What you expect to happen in an experiment
Test Group vs. Control Group
Test Group: Exposed to the variable being tested
Control Group: Not exposed, used for comparison
Variables in an Experiment
Independent Variable: What you change
Dependent Variable: What you measure (the result)
Standard Error vs. Statistical Significance
Standard Error: Measures accuracy of data
Statistical Significance: Shows if results are real or just by chance
Theory vs. Law
Theory: A well-supported explanation (ex: Evolution)
Law: A description of what happens in nature (ex: Gravity)
bacteria is…
single celled, no nucleus
archaea is…
like bacteria but live in extreme conditions
ekarya is…
cells WITH nucleus (ex: plants, animals, fungi, protists)
