Characteristics Of Life and Scientific Method Flashcards
Problem statement
Describes the main topic of the experiment
Hypothesis
A possible explanation for a set of observations or an answer to a scientific question
Variables
Any factor that could possibly change during an experiment
Independent variable
The one factor that is purposely changed during an experiment.
Ex: mass of table sugar in the water (g)
Dependent variable
The factor(s) that change in response to the independent variable. Variable measured during an experiment
Ex: length of time the rose flowers show no signs of wilting or drooping
Constants
All other factors that must be kept the same throughout the experiment to ensure a fair test
Ex: number of roses, amount of light exposure
Experimental Control
Used to compare the results of an experiment
Materials
A list that identifies all the materials required to preform the experiment
Procedure
Describes the steps needed to conduct the experiment and collect the correct type of data
Data
All information obtained during an experiment
Qualitative
Information represented by statements of opinion
Ex: the flower looked wilted
Quantitative
Information represented by numerical measurements
Ex: the vase had 10 flowers
Graph
A tool used to summarize data visually
Analysis
Examining the data to identify patterns and/or relationships
Conclusion
A brief summary of the experiment
Adaptation
Inherited changes that make a species survivi
Stimuli
Organisms respond to environmental signals
Reproduction
Ability for an organism to make offspring
Metabolism
Chemical reactions occur, obtain or use energy
Homeostasis
Maintenance of a stable internal environment
Organization
How something works relates to its structure
Growth and development
Gaining mass abilities to survive
Cells
Basic unit of life
