Search Results for:
Interpreting Results
Learning Outcomes Analyze simple data and graphed results Gathering Data After the experiment is completed, the data gathered are carefully interpreted. This involves the measurement of the dependent variable. In the case of our HPV experiment, remember, the dependent variable is the rate of HPV infection. Practice Question The researchers found that, of the 1,200 Read more »
Experiments and Hypotheses
Learning Outcomes Form a hypothesis and use it to design a scientific experiment Now we’ll focus on the methods of scientific inquiry. Science often involves making observations and developing hypotheses. Experiments and further observations are often used to test the hypotheses. A scientific experiment is a carefully organized procedure in which the scientist intervenes in a system Read more »
Scientific Inquiry
Learning Outcomes Describe “scientific inquiry” and identify its scope of coverage One thing is common to all forms of science: an ultimate goal “to know.” Curiosity and inquiry are the driving forces for the development of science. Scientists seek to understand the world and the way it operates. Two methods of logical thinking are used: Read more »
Taxonomy
Learning Outcomes Explain how relationships are indicated by the binomial naming system Taxonomy (which literally means “arrangement law”) is the science of classifying organisms to construct internationally shared classification systems with each organism placed into more and more inclusive groupings. Think about how a grocery store is organized. One large space is divided into departments, Read more »
Phylogenetic Trees
Learning Outcomes Explain the purpose of phylogenetic trees In scientific terms, the evolutionary history and relationship of an organism or group of organisms is called phylogeny. Phylogeny describes the relationships of one organism to others—such as which organisms it is thought to have evolved from, which species it is most closely related to, and so Read more »
Putting It Together: Introduction to Biology
Biology is the study of life. As we’ve learned, this field covers a broad scope of subjects. As you progress through this course, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. Let’s think back to the articles Cristina encountered at the beginning of this module: how could a knowledge of biological principle help with Read more »
The Diversity of Life
Learning Outcomes Explain the “diversity of life” Biological diversity is the variety of life on earth. This includes all the different plants, animals, and microorganisms; the genes they contain; and the ecosystems they form on land and in water. Biological diversity is constantly changing. It is increased by new genetic variation and reduced by extinction and Read more »
Comparing Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells
Learning Outcomes Identify features common to all cells Contrast the composition and size of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells Cells fall into one of two broad categories: prokaryotic and eukaryotic. The single-celled organisms of the domains Bacteria and Archaea are classified as prokaryotes (pro = before; karyon– = nucleus). Animal cells, plant cells, fungi, and protists Read more »
Levels of Organization of Living Things
Learning Outcomes Order the levels of organization of living things Living things are highly organized and structured, following a hierarchy that can be examined on a scale from small to large. The atom is the smallest and most fundamental unit of matter. It consists of a nucleus surrounded by electrons. Atoms form molecules. A molecule Read more »
Properties of Life
Learning OUTCOMES List the properties of life All living organisms share several key characteristics or functions: order, sensitivity or response to the environment, reproduction, growth and development, regulation, homeostasis, and energy processing. When viewed together, these characteristics serve to define life. Order Organisms are highly organized, coordinated structures that consist of one or more cells. Even Read more »
