Scientific Method
The first step in the scientific method process
What is asking a question or making an observation?
What are the main components of an experimental design?
Main components include independent variable, dependent variable, control group, constants, and experimental group.
Name 4 characteristics that all living organisms share.
can be any of the following:
What is the most abundant molecule in living organisms?
What is water (H20)?
What are the four main types of macromolecules?
The four main types are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
Define a hypothesis in the context of scientific inquiry.
What is a hypothesis is a testable prediction or explanation based on observations, which can be supported or refuted through experimentation?
Describe the role of the control group in an experiment.
The control group serves as a baseline to compare results against and does not receive the experimental treatment.
Describe metabolism.
Metabolism is the sum of all chemical reactions that occur within an organism to maintain life.
Explain why water is a polar molecule.
Water is polar because it has an uneven distribution of electrons, with a slight negative charge near oxygen and positive near hydrogen atoms.
What is the primary function of carbohydrates in living organisms?
Carbohydrates primarily provide energy and structural support.
Why is it important to control variables in an experiment?
Controlling variables is important because it ensures that only the independent variable affects the outcome, making the results reliable and valid.
What is the purpose of the a dependent variable?
The dependent variable is the factor that is measured or observed in response to changes in the independent variable.
Describe homeostasis and provide an example.
Homeostasis is the maintenance of stable internal conditions; for example, humans sweating to cool down.
What is cohesion and why is it important for water?
Cohesion is the attraction between water molecules, important for processes like water transport in plants.
Describe the structure and function of proteins.
Proteins are made of amino acids and function as enzymes, structural components, and in cell signaling.
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data?
Qualitative data describes characteristics or qualities (like color, texture), while quantitative data involves numerical measurements or counts.
How do scientists ensure their experiments are repeatable?
Scientists ensure repeatability by clearly documenting procedures so others can perform the experiment under the same conditions.
How do organisms transmit traits from one generation to the next?
Organisms transmit traits through genetic material, primarily DNA, passed from parents to offspring.
How does water's high specific heat benefit living organisms?
Water’s high specific heat helps organisms by buffering temperature changes, maintaining stable environments.
What are lipids, and why are they important for cells?
Lipids are fatty molecules important for energy storage, insulation, and making up cell membranes.
Explain the importance of peer review in scientific research.
Peer review is important because it validates research by having experts evaluate the methods and conclusions, ensuring accuracy and credibility
Factors to consider when selecting a sample size.
the desired accuracy and reliability of results, variability within the population, available resources (time, money, materials), and ensuring the sample is large enough to detect meaningful differences or effects.
Discuss the significance of cellular organization in living things.
Cellular organization is significant because cells are the basic units of life, allowing specialization and complex functions.
Why is water considered a universal solvent, and how does this property benefit living organisms?
Water is called a universal solvent because it can dissolve many different substances due to its polarity, which allows it to surround and separate molecules. This property benefits living organisms by enabling essential chemical reactions, transporting nutrients and waste, and facilitating cellular processes.
Explain the role of nucleic acids in biological systems.
Nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) store and transmit genetic information and guide protein synthesis.