Key Biological Concepts and Scientific Methodology

Biosphere = All living things and places found on Earth Biodiversity = The variety of all living things Species = A living thing that can reproduce Organism = An individual living thing

Observation = Using our senses to study the world Data = Recorded observations to be analyzed Hypothesis = A proposed answer for a scientific question Experiment = A procedure done in controlled conditions

Independent variable = A condition that's manipulated by a scientist Dependent variable = A condition that is measured Constant = A condition that stays the same Theory = A proposed explanation for observations supported with evidence

<p>Biome = A large region characterized by a particular climate and dominant plant life. Homeostasis = The ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal environment. Evolution = The gradual change in the genetic makeup of populations over time. Biodiversity = The variety of living organisms within a given area.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Independent variable = The factor that is manipulated or changed by the experimenter. Dependent variable = The factor that is measured or observed in response to changes in the independent variable. Constant = A factor that is kept the same throughout the experiment. Hypothesis = A testable prediction or explanation for a phenomenon.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Gene = A segment of DNA that codes for a specific trait or protein. Molecular genetics = The study of the structure, function, and manipulation of DNA. Genomics = The study of the complete set of genes (genome) of an organism. Transgenic = An organism that contains genetic material from a different species.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Cell = The basic unit of life, capable of performing all essential life functions. Organism = An individual living thing that can carry out all life processes independently. System = A group of organs that work together to perform a specific function. Ecosystem = A community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Adaptation = A trait or characteristic that helps an organism survive and reproduce in its environment. Observation = The process of using our senses to gather information about the world around us. Data = Recorded observations that can be analyzed and interpreted. Theory = A well-supported explanation for a phenomenon, based on a large body of evidence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Metabolism = The sum of all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism. DNA = A molecule that carries genetic information, passed from parents to offspring. Biotechnology = The application of biological principles to solve problems or create new products. Microscope = A tool used to magnify small objects, allowing us to see details that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Biosphere = The part of Earth where all living things exist. Species = A group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. Biodiversity = The variety of life on Earth, including all species, ecosystems, and genetic variations. Biology = The scientific study of life and living organisms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Evolution = The process by which populations of organisms change over time, driven by natural selection. Adaptation = A trait that increases an organism's chances of survival and reproduction in its environment. Observation = The process of gathering information through our senses. Theory = A well-substantiated explanation for a phenomenon, supported by a large body of evidence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

All living things and places found on Earth.

The chemical process that builds up or breaks down materials in organisms.

The regulation of internal temperatures and conditions in an organism.

A proposed answer for a scientific question that can be tested.

Organisms that have genes from multiple species inserted into their DNA.