science
An organized way of gathering and analyzing evidence about the natural world.
observation
The act of noticing and describing events or processes in a careful, orderly way.
inference
a logical interpretation based on what scientists already know.
hypothesis
A scientific explanation for a set of observations that can be tested in ways that support or reject it.
controlled experiment
experiment in which only one variable is changed
independent variable
the variable that is deliberately changed
dependent variable
the variable that is observed and that changes in response to the independent variable
control group
exposed to the same conditions as the experimental group except for one independent variable
data
detailed records of experimental observations, gathering information
scientific theory
A well-tested explanation for a wide range of observations or experimental results.
bias
A particular preference or point of view that is personal, rather than scientific.
biology
the study of life
DNA
A complex molecule containing the genetic information that makes up the chromosomes.
stimulus
a signal to which an organism responds
sexual reproduction
cells from two parents unite to form the first cell of a new organism
asexual reproduction
a single organism produces offspring identical to itself
homeostasis
process by which organisms maintain a relatively stable internal environment
metabolism
the combination of chemical reactions through which an organism builds up or breaks down materials
biosphere
living planet
skeptical attitude
a new idea will only be accepted if it is backed by evidence