01/12 01 Foundations of Biology and Scientific Inquiry Free Online FlashCards

What does biology study?

Biology is the scientific study of life, from molecules and cells to organisms, populations, communities, and ecosystems.

What is homeostasis?

Homeostasis is the regulation of internal conditions within suitable ranges despite changes in the external environment.

How does a hypothesis differ from a prediction?

A hypothesis is a narrower, testable proposed explanation for a specific observation or pattern; a prediction is the specific result expected if it is correct.

What distinguishes independent and dependent variables?

The independent variable is deliberately changed by the investigator; the dependent variable is measured as the response.

Why does correlation alone not prove causation?

Correlation shows that two variables are related, but it does not establish causation because a third variable may influence both.

How do accuracy and precision differ?

Accuracy describes closeness to an accepted value, while precision describes how closely repeated measurements agree with one another.

How is the mean calculated?

The mean is the arithmetic average, calculated by summing all values and dividing by the number of values: x̄ = Σxᵢ/n.

When are scatterplots and line graphs appropriate?

Use a scatterplot to show the relationship between two quantitative variables; use a line graph to show a response changing across an ordered variable such as time.

How should an outlier be handled?

Do not discard an outlier merely because it weakens a hypothesis. Investigate possible recording mistakes, equipment failure, contamination, or legitimate biological variation, and justify any exclusion.

What does a laboratory risk assessment evaluate?

A risk assessment identifies hazards, exposure routes, possible severity and likelihood, risk-reducing controls, and actions required if an incident occurs.

Contrast inductive and deductive reasoning.

Inductive reasoning moves from specific observations toward a general pattern or explanation, whereas deductive reasoning moves from a general explanation toward a specific prediction.

What is a confounding variable?

A confounding variable is an uncontrolled factor that changes systematically with the independent variable and could explain the observed result.