Human Biology 175-Chapter 1 Terms

Biology

The study of living things and life's processes.

Science

The study of the natural world

Theory

A main hypothesis that has been extensively tested over time and that explains a broad range of scientific facts with a high degree of reliability. An example is the theory of evolution.

Experiment

A procedure designed to test a working hypothesis. In a controlled experiment, all conditions of the environment are controlled except the specific factor dictated by the working hypothesis.

Hypothesis

An explanation or description of a proposed truth. A hypothesis is expressed as a testable statement about the natural world.

Deductive Reasoning

Applying the general case to the specific

Inductive Reasoning

Extrapolating from the specific to the general case

Variable

Factors that might vary during the course of the experiment.

Experimental Group

In a controlled experiment, the group of subjects that receives the experimental treatment. Compare Control Group

Control Group

In scientific experiments, a group of subjects that undergoes all the steps in the experiment except the one being tested. The control group is used to evaluate all possible factors that might influence the experiment other than the experimental treatment. Compare experimental group.

Scientific Method

The process of science; the way scientific knowledge is acquired.

Homeostasis (ho-mee-oh-STAY-sis)

State of body equilibrium characterized by a relatively constant and stable internal environment.

Data

Statistics is the mathematics of organizing and interpreting numerical information.