BIO 103 Human Biology Quiz

Questions and Answers

Which statement accurately describes the role of peer-reviewed journals in disseminating scientific findings?

They are open to all types of research without scrutiny.

They primarily include opinions rather than empirical data.

They provide the most reliable results based on rigorous evaluation. (correct)

They offer the quickest way to publish results.

What distinguishes autotrophs from heterotrophs in their method of obtaining energy?

Autotrophs utilize sunlight and raw materials to create their own food. (correct)

Heterotrophs absorb energy directly from inorganic materials.

Autotrophs require complex organic substances for energy.

Heterotrophs synthesize their own food through photosynthesis.

Which of the following molecules is NOT considered a key component of the chemical composition of living things?

Nucleic acids

Proteins

Inorganic salts (correct)

Carbohydrates

How do living organisms maintain homeostasis?

By responding to environmental stimuli and adjusting internal conditions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common misconception regarding the reliability of scientific information found online?

All scientific information on government websites is accurate. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary factor causing the increase in black moths in industrialized areas during the 1800s?

Increased air pollution affecting pigmentation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following features is NOT a defining characteristic of humans?

High capacity for flight Signup and view all the answers

Which factor contributed to the decline of the black moth population as pollution decreased?

Reduction in environmental changes favoring dark coloration Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary limitation of the scientific method as described in the content?

It can only disprove ideas. Signup and view all the answers

What is a fundamental concept of cell theory regarding living organisms?

Cells are the smallest unit of life and come from pre-existing cells. Signup and view all the answers

Which step in the scientific method follows the formulation of testable hypotheses?

Perform experiments or observations. Signup and view all the answers

What advantage does large brain size provide to humans compared to other animals?

Enhanced capacity for social interaction and culture Signup and view all the answers

What process do living organisms use to maintain a stable internal environment?

Homeostasis Signup and view all the answers

Why is random sampling critical in epidemiological studies?

It ensures the sample is representative of the population. Signup and view all the answers

Which two features combined enable humans to use complex tools?

Bipedalism and opposable thumbs Signup and view all the answers

What could potentially occur if a hypothesis has broad support but is never disproven?

It may eventually be elevated to the status of a theory. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of evolution, how did air pollution affect gene frequencies in the moth population?

It reduced the survival rate of lighter moths Signup and view all the answers

How do living organisms respond to environmental stimuli?

By displaying irritability and adapting their behavior. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements reflects a characteristic of living organisms?

They can maintain homeostasis. Signup and view all the answers

Which reproduction method results in offspring genetically identical to the parent?

Asexual reproduction Signup and view all the answers

How do the large brains of humans compare to those of other animals, according to body size?

Humans have larger brains proportionate to body size than any other animal Signup and view all the answers

What role does complex language play in human evolution?

Facilitates complex social structures and cultural traditions Signup and view all the answers

What drives the process of evolution in populations of living organisms?

Natural selection Signup and view all the answers

In cancer research, which variable is often considered when assessing the health risks of smoking?

Comparison of smokers to nonsmokers. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a unicellular organism?

Amoeba Signup and view all the answers

Why was the black form of the moth rare in less industrialized areas during the 1800s?

Preference of mates for lighter colors Signup and view all the answers

What is the outcome of disproving a hypothesis during an experiment?

The hypothesis can be discarded or revised. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic allows organisms to react to their environment?

Irritability Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best exemplifies how scientific ideas are validated?

They must be reproduced and independently verified. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding genetic traits in a population?

Natural selection can lead to emergence of new species. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common method through which organisms can maintain homeostasis regarding body temperature?

Engaging in shivering or sweating. Signup and view all the answers

How does the frequency of genetic traits in a population change over time?

Via natural selection and environmental changes. Signup and view all the answers

What defines the control group in an experimental study?

The group that is not exposed to the treatment Signup and view all the answers

What outcome suggests the rejection of the null hypothesis?

A p-value less than 0.05 Signup and view all the answers

In the given observational study, what does the high incidence of lung cancer in smokers imply?

There is a correlation, not causation established Signup and view all the answers

What was the total number of mice used in the experimental study?

200,000 mice Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes the experimental group?

The group receiving the intervention or treatment Signup and view all the answers

Why did cigarette companies remain skeptical despite studies showing a correlation between smoking and lung cancer?

The companies believed the evidence was circumstantial Signup and view all the answers

What does the alternate hypothesis propose in the described studies?

There is a significant difference between smoker and non-smoker groups Signup and view all the answers

What results were observed in the experimental study with mice regarding lung cancer incidences?

210 cases in smoking mice Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical limitation mentioned regarding the studies on smoking and lung cancer?

Animal results cannot be fully extrapolated to humans Signup and view all the answers

How is the incidence of lung cancer measured in the studies presented?

Reported cases per 100,000 individuals Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Instructor Background

Dr. Aaron Bartholomew holds a BSc in Marine Science/Biology, minor in Chemistry (GPA: 3.99) and a PhD in Marine Science (Marine Ecology) (GPA: 3.94).
At AUS since 2002, authored 31 papers/chapter with over 2,500 citations.

Course Guidelines

Review syllabus and materials on iLearn before lectures.
Class notes are essential for understanding.
Optional homework can positively influence grades.

Scientific Method Overview

Cannot prove ideas, can only disprove falsehoods and accumulate supportive evidence.
Steps of the scientific method include:
- Making observations.
- Formulating a general hypothesis.
- Designing testable hypotheses and experiments.
- Conducting experiments with random sampling and proper controls.
- Evaluating results and adjusting hypotheses accordingly.
- Publishing outcomes, with supported hypotheses evolving to theories.

Study Example: Smoking and Lung Cancer

General observation: Smokers face many health issues, including lung cancer.
Hypothesis formed: Smokers have a higher lung cancer risk.
Conducted observational study with 100,000 smokers and 100,000 non-smokers; results showed significant disparity in lung cancer incidence.

Statistical Outcomes

Smoking group: 60 lung cancer cases out of 100,000.
Non-smoking group: 2 lung cancer cases out of 100,000.
Acceptance of alternate hypothesis if p < 0.05, indicating statistical significance.

Experimental Study Findings

an experiment conducted with mice resulted in:
- Smoking group: 210 lung cancer cases out of 100,000.
- Non-smoking group: 4 cases.
Strong evidence supports that smoking may contribute to increased lung cancer risk but does not provide absolute proof.

Human Characteristics

Defining features of humans include:
- Bipedalism, allowing for use of hands.
- Opposable thumbs supporting tool usage.
- Larger relative brain size aiding in complex thought and culture.
- Advanced language abilities facilitating communication.

Characteristics of Life

Cell theory: All living organisms consist of at least one cell; cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Living organisms maintain homeostasis by regulating internal conditions (e.g., temperature regulation).

Responses to Environment

Living organisms sense and react to external stimuli, demonstrating irritability (e.g., reflexes, plant growth).

Reproduction and Growth

Asexual reproduction results in genetically identical offspring.
Sexual reproduction combines genetic material from two parents, producing diverse offspring.

Evolution Principles

Evolution involves changes in genetic trait frequencies in populations over generations, often through natural selection favoring "fit" traits.

Dissemination of Findings

Reliable sources include peer-reviewed journals and reputable media.
Be cautious of misinformation on the internet; prioritize academic and government sources.

Key Living Characteristics

Living organisms:
- Intake energy and materials from surroundings.
- Differ chemically from non-living entities.
- Comprise cells and metabolize energy.
- Engage in homeostasis and reproduction.
- Possess DNA and capability for evolutionary change.

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Description

Test your knowledge on Human Biology concepts covered in BIO 103 at AUS. This quiz includes key ideas from lectures and readings essential for understanding the course material. Prepare well to enhance your learning experience and academic performance.