chapter 1 (Human Biology, Science, and Society) Flashcards
(23 cards)
What are some challenges our world faces today?
Global infectious diseases, natural disasters, human activities harming the environment
Examples include bird flu and major damage from natural disasters.
What is the solution to the challenges we face in the world?
Use systematic observation and scientific investigation to find answers and solutions.
What are the essential features that all life shares?
- Energy & Material Use
- Response to Environment
- Reproduction & Growth
- Cellular Structure
- Homeostasis
What does ‘Energy & Material Use’ refer to in living organisms?
Living things take in materials (like nutrients) and use energy.
How do living organisms respond to their environment?
They sense and respond to changes in their surroundings.
What are the shared features between humans and primates?
- 99.6% of DNA shared with chimps and bonobos
- Enhanced dexterity
- Large brains
- Communication
- Culture
To which kingdom do humans belong?
Animal Kingdom within Domain Eukarya.
What are the levels of biological organization?
- Atom → Molecule
- Cell → Tissue
- Organ → Organ System
- Organism
- Population → Community → Ecosystem → Biosphere
What is the primary energy source for life?
The Sun.
What role do producers play in energy and matter flow?
Producers (plants) use photosynthesis.
What is the purpose of the Scientific Method?
A systematic way to learn about the natural world.
What is the first step in the Scientific Method?
Observe something.
What does a hypothesis represent?
A possible explanation.
What is the outcome of the experiment comparing Olestra and regular chips?
No significant difference.
What does the term ‘control group’ refer to?
Standard for comparison.
What compound found in broccoli reduces cancer in mice?
Sulforaphane.
What is a Scientific Theory?
A broad, tested explanation based on many hypotheses.
What are the limits of science?
- Only answers testable questions
- Can’t answer subjective or moral questions
- Can be misused
What skills are important for critical thinking in science?
- Ask who is giving information and why
- Look for credible evidence
- Watch for bias or hearsay
- Differentiate between correlation and causation
- Separate facts from opinions
What are some risks associated with herbal supplements?
- Lack of rigorous testing
- Potential for harm (e.g., liver damage, nerve issues)
What is the definition of a prediction in the scientific method?
What you’d expect if the hypothesis is true.
What does the term ‘variable’ refer to in a scientific experiment?
The factor that changes.
What are the key takeaways from the chapter?
- Life is defined by specific traits
- Humans are evolved animals
- Science is a structured way of understanding nature
- The scientific method is essential for reliable knowledge
- Critical thinking helps assess scientific claims
- Scientific knowledge must be applied responsibly
- Be cautious with unverified supplements
