list the 7 steps of the scientific method
define hypothesis
a proposed explanation for a set of observations (a valid hypothesis must be testable and falsifiable)
define an independent variable
what is being manipulated by the researchers as a potential cause
define a dependent variable
the response, output, or effect under investigation that is used to judge the outcome of the experiment.
define science
an approach to understanding the natural world around us
what are the properties associated with living organisms and the characteristics which make life forms more unique
define metabolism
all the chemical reactions that occur in a cell such as catabolic and anabolic reactions
define homeostasis
the maintenance of internal conditions within certain boundaries (balance)
list the 4 elements common to all life
carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen
what are proteins constructed from
amino acids
what are carbohydrates constructed from
monosaccharides
what are nucleic acids constructed from
nucleotides
what are lipids constructed from
glycerol and fatty acids
what is the cell theory
describe the main differences between a prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell
Prokaryotic cells:
- do not have a true nucleus
- are smaller and simpler
- no membrane bound organelles, but do
have tiny ribosomes
- have a region with a single, circular DNA
strand
Eukaryotic cells:
- contain a true nucleus
- large and complex
- have membrane bound organelles
including ribosomes
- one or more linear chromosomes
what kind of organisms have prokaryotic cells?
bacteria and archaebacteria
what kind of organisms have eukaryotic cells?
protists, plants, fungi, and animals
describe the structure of the nucleus
describe the function of the nucleus
describe the structure of the cell wall
strong protective structure that surrounds a cell
describe the function of the cell wall
provide structural support, shape, and protection to a cell
describe the structure of the plasma membrane
describe the function of the plasma membrane
describe the structure of the cytoplasm
a gel-like, fluid substance that fills the inside of a cell