Evolution, Themes of Biology and Scientific Inquiry Flashcards
3 main parts of the scientific method
- Hypothesis
- Prediction
- Theory
Hypothesis
Possible answer to a scientific question
Prediction
The outcome that would be observed if the hypothesis is right
Theory
- Strong, well-supported explanation of existing observations
- Supported by data
Proper way to study biology?
Using the scientific method
What are the seven properties of life
- Cellular organization
- Reproduction
- Growth and development
- Metabolism (energy processing)
- Homeostasis (regulation)
- Response to environment
- Evolutionary adaptation
What are 5 core themes of biology
- organization
- information
- energy and matter
- interactions
- evolution
Organization
- Basic units of structure define the function of all living things
- Occurs at multiple levels
- Structure drives function
What is the most basic unit of life?
A cell
Information
Growth and behaviour of organisms are activated through the expression of genetic information in context
DNA basic points
- Hereditary material of all lifeforms
- Carries genes encoding proteins that determine the functions of a cell
Central dogma of molecular biology
DNA –> RNA –> Protein
Energy and Matter
Biological systems grow and changed based on chemical transformation pathways and are governed by the laws of thermodynamics
What is required for all aspects of life
Conversion of energy from one form to another
Interactions
Living systems are interconnected and interacting