Ecology Flashcards
Definition of empirical evidence?
evidence that is observed directly through research and investigation. Used to construct testable explanations and predictions of natural phenomena.
Definition of observations?
Information gathered by noticing facts and occurrences using your five senses.
Definition of qualitative data?
describes a phenomenon that can include sights, sounds, and smells. Used to report what happens but not how it happens.
Definition of quantitative data?
Characteristics that can be counted or measured. Anything that is expressed as a number. Can be used to explore how something happens
What is non-significant data?
the data shows no effect, or an effect so small that the results could have happened by chance
what is statistically significant data?
the data shows an effect that is likely not due to chance.
what is an independent variable?
The experimental factor that is manipulated or changed by a scientist. (cause)
what is a dependent variable?
The outcome factor; the variable that may change in response to manipulations of the independent variable. (effect)
What is the definition of a theory?
proposed explanation for a wide variety of observations and experimental results that is supported by a wide range of evidence. never proven.
What is a hypothesis?
Propose answers to a scientific question.
What is the Biosphere?
encompasses the entire planet
What is a biome?
large naturally occurring group of animals and plants that occur in certain areas based on temperature.
What is an ecosystem?
includes all living and non-living things in a given area
What is a community?
All the living organisms in an area
what is the definition of population?
a group of the species that all live in the same area at the same time.
what is an organism?
a single individual of a species.
what is biodiversity?
the variety of different living things in an area.
Definition of abiotic?
non-living parts of an ecosystem or biome
Definition of biotic?
living parts of an ecosystem or biome
What is a control group
No independent variable. Used to see if the independent variable really causes an effect.
