Here are some important science keys and their definitions drawn primarily from
educational science glossaries related to general science and biology:
Key Term
Definition
Change
A variance in the rate, scale, and pattern, including
trends and cycles observed in systems.
Constancy
The stability of a property, such as a constant speed
of light, despite changes in other variables.
Equilibrium
A physical state where forces or changes occur in
opposite, offsetting directions maintaining balance.
Evidence
Data and documentation that support inferences or
conclusions in scientific studies.
Evolution
A series of changes, gradual or sporadic, explaining
the current form and function of objects or
organisms.
Form and
Function
Complementary aspects where the shape or structure of
an object relates to its purpose or role.
Measurement
The quantification of changes or properties in
systems, often involving mathematical precision.
Models
Tentative structures or representations corresponding
to real objects or phenomena that help explain
observations.
Order
The consistent behavior or arrangement of matter,
organisms, events, or objects in the universe.
Organization
Descriptions based on complexity or order of systems.
Systems
Groups of related objects or components forming a
whole.
Analyze
The skill of detecting underlying details and
patterns not always plainly visible.
Apply
Using information selectively in new situations or
problems.
Observe
The skill of making careful descriptions of
scientific events or phenomena.
Predict
Explaining or forecasting new events based on
existing observations or data.
Energy
The capacity of a physical system to do work.
Biology
The scientific study of life and living organisms.
Biome
Large ecological regions on Earth defined by climate
and organisms.
Biotechnology
Use of living systems or organisms to develop
products or processes for specific uses.
Cell
The basic structural and functional unit of
organisms.
Gene
DNA segment containing instructions to produce RNA or
proteins; fundamental hereditary unit.
Genetics
The study of heredity and gene transmission.
Ecosystem
A community of organisms interacting with physical
environment, maintaining ecological balance.
Sustainability
Ability to maintain ecological or system stability
over time.