biol 5 lab

• Scientific Method


  • Systematic approach in pursuit of truth based on rationality and logic
  • Involves the non-acceptance of an explanation without proof
• Scientific Method


  1. Observing and stating a problem

  2. Forming a hypothesis

  3. Testing the hypothesis

  4. Recording and analyzing data

  5. Forming conclusions

  6. Replicating the process
• Hypothesis


  • Useful if it explains a problem, suggests new ideas, and makes predictions that can be tested
  • Answer to a question about cause and effect
• Kinds of Hypotheses


  • Descriptive Hypothesis - overall statement which provides a basis for predicting things not yet observed
  • Explanatory Hypothesis - tentative explanation of, or even a guess at what caused the pattern under observation
• Alternative hypothesis may be formulated to design better experiments and explore more possibilities in testing the main hypothesis
• Data


  • All observations and information
  • Properly recorded and analyzed
  • Statistical tests may be applied to decide whether the results validate or refute the hypothesis
  • It is important that the data and results are reproducible to be assured of the validity of an experiment
• Types of Variables


  • Independent - manipulates
  • Dependent - outcome/result
  • Constant - quantity
• The Scientific Method


  Method of research with defined steps that include experiments and careful observation
• The Scientific Method


  1. Observation and Identification of the Problem

  2. Formulation of Hypothesis

  3. Experimentation or Testing the Hypothesis

  4. Analysis and Interpretation of Data and Results

  5. Generalization or Formulation of Conclusion
• Hypothesis


  A suggested explanation for an event, which can be tested
• Scientific Theory


  A generally accepted, thoroughly tested and confirmed explanation for a set of observations or phenomena
• A hypothesis can be disproven, or eliminated, but it can never be proven
• Unifying Theories


  • Cell Theory - Robert Hooke
  • Biogenesis - Rudolf Virchow
  • Homeostasis - steady state
  • Evolution - change overtime, "adapt"
  • Gene - Gregor Mendel "basic physical and functional unit of heredity." "Made up of DNA"
• statistical tests may be applied to decide whether the results validate or refute the hypothesis
• Carbon

  • primarily the element that makes up organic compounds that living things are made of