Shared Flashcard Set

Details

Basic Biology Terms
preparing for biology class
7
Biology
Undergraduate 4
05/12/2009

Additional Biology Flashcards

 


 

Cards

Term
Biology
Definition
Biology is the study of LIFE and the changes that take place with and around all living things. And don't just think we mean Earth. The study of biology covers every planet and object in the Universe.
Term
the scientific method
Definition
the way scientists learn and study the world around them. It can be used to study anything from a leaf to a dog to the entire Universe.
-The scientific method is a rational, logical thought process that is used to figure out facts and truths. All of the answers must be able to be proved.
The basis of the scientific method is asking questions and then trying to come up with the answers. You could ask, "Why do dogs and cats have hair?" One answer might be that it keeps them warm. BOOM! It's the scientific method in action.
Term
Hypothesis
Definition
- a statement that uses a few observations
- an idea based on observations without experimental evidence
Term
Theory
Definition
- uses many observations and has loads of experimental evidence
- can be applied to unrelated facts and new relationships
- flexible enough to be modified if new data/evidence introduced
Term
Law
Definition
- stands the test of time, often without change
- experimentally confirmed over and over
- can create true predictions for different situations
- has uniformity and is universal
Term
Model
Definition
a scientific statement that has some experimental validity or is a scientific concept that is only accurate under limited situations. Models do not work or apply under all situations in all environments. They are not universal ideas like a law or theory.
Term
Quantitative vs. Qualitative
Definition
There are no opinions that are considered scientific laws. To scientists, the truth is something that is quantitative. Quantitative statements are ones that can be proved through experiments. When someone has an opinion, or an idea that can't be proved directly, they call it a qualitative argument.
-Ex: Quantitative- This bug has two eyes. Qualitative- This bug is scary
Supporting users have an ad free experience!