Biology and You Section 3

Section 3: Tools and Techniques

Preview• Bellringer• Key Ideas• Measurement Systems• Lab Techniques• Safety• Summary

Biology and You Section 3

BellringerExamine the SI units below.

How many meters are there in a kilometer? How many centigrams are in a gram?

How many milliliters are in 20 liters?

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Key Ideas

• Why do scientists use SI units for measurement?

• What are some tools and techniques that scientists use in the laboratory?

• What can you do to stay safe during an investigation?

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Measurement Systems

• Measurements taken by scientists are expressed in the International System of Units (SI), the official name of the metric system.

• The International System of Units is used by all scientists because scientists need to share a common measurement system.

• SI is also preferred by scientists because it is scaled in multiples of 10, which makes the system easy to use.

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Measurement Systems, continued

• SI is a decimal system, so all relationships between SI units are based on powers of 10.

• Most SI units have a prefix that indicates the relationship of that unit to a base unit.

• For example, the prefix kilo- means 1,000. So, a kilogram is equal to 1,000 grams.

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Some SI Prefixes

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Metric Units of Lengths and Equivalents

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Lab Techniques

• In the lab, scientists always keep detailed and accurate notes and perform precise measurements.

• Many scientists also use specialized tools, such as microscopes, and specialized procedures, such as sterile technique.

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Lab Techniques, continued

• Scientists use microscopes to view objects and organisms that are too small to see with the unaided eye.

• Sterile technique is a method of keeping unwanted microorganisms out of a lab in order to minimize the risk of contamination.

• Scientists also collect data remotely using devices such as satellites. These devices help scientists conduct research that would not have been possible in the past.

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Visual Concept: Types of Microscopes

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Visual Concept: Parts of a Light Microscope

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Safety

• Scientists must use caution when working in the lab or doing field research to avoid things like chemical burns, exposure to radiation, exposure to infectious disease, animal bites, or poisonous plants.

• Carefully follow all guidelines and procedures for working safely in the lab. Know the location and proper operation of all lab safety equipment.

• If an accident occurs while in the lab, remain calm. Make sure you are safe and that no one else is in danger. Then inform your teacher.

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Summary

• The International System of Units is used by scientists because scientists must share a common measurement system. SI is scaled in multiples of 10, which makes the system easy to use.

• In the lab, scientists keep detailed and accurate notes and perform precise measurements. Scientists also use specialized tools and procedures.

• Scientists use caution to avoid hazards such as chemical burns, exposure to radiation, exposure to infectious disease, animal bites, or poisonous plants.