Module 1 Flashcards
Biology
The study of life. The Greek word bios means “life,” and -logy means “study of.”
Evidence
The collected body of data from experiments and observations
Quantitative observations
Observations involving numbers, such as counting or measuring
Qualitative observations
Observations that are not easily counted or measured, such as color or texture
Inference
Logical interpretation based on prior knowledge, experience, or evidence
Hypothesis
A suggested, testable answer to a well-defined scientific question or a possible, testable explanation for observations
Variable
A factor that changes in an experiment
Independent variable
The variable manipulated by the experimenter
Dependent variable
The variable responding to the manipulated variable
Experimental group
The group in an experiment that is manipulated (contains the independent variable)
Control group
The group in an experiment that experiences no manipulati (does not contain the independent variable)
Scientific theory
An explanation of some part of the natural world that has been thoroughly tested and is supported by a significant amount of evidence from observations and experiments
Scientific law
A description of a natural relationship or principle, often expressed in mathematical terms, and supported by a significant amount of evidence
Microorganisms
Living creatures that are too small to see with the naked eye
Abiogenesis
The idea that long ago, very simple life forms spontaneously appeared through chemical reactions