Addresses course outcomes 1-4:
recognize and explain how the scientific method is used to solve problems make observations and discriminate between scientific and pseudoscientific explanations weigh evidence and make decisions based on strengths and limitations of scientific knowledge and the scientific method use knowledge of biological principles and the scientific method to ask relevant questions, develop hypotheses, design and conduct experiments, interpret results, and draw conclusions
This is the culminating lab assessment in BIOL 103. It is designed to assess your ability to apply the principles of the scientific method.
The effect of pH on enzyme activity
Design an experiment in which you will test the effect of an acidic fluid on enzymatic activity. (Recall: Enzymes are proteins.) It may be useful for you to review the Scientific Method Tutorial (found in the Course Content section of the classroom).
Lab Materials
You may need all or some of the following, depending on your experimental design:
Materials from your lab kit:
pH paper
hydrogen peroxide solution
plastic beakers or cups
vinegar
yeast
balloons
plastic bottle
marker for labeling of beakers
You may choose to use additional materials (different acidic solutions and/or different organisms).
1. Outline: Write brief description of planned experiment
2. Write a brief introduction. Include the question that you are asking and a clear hypothesis for your experiment
3. Design an experiment. Provide a detailed account of the materials and methods used to conduct the experiment. Also include the methods for data collection and analysis
4. Conduct the experiment and record your results below. What did you observe? Which samples showed bubbling? Rate the bubbling for comparison between samples. Present your data in table or graph format
5. Use your knowledge about enzymes to interpret and discuss your results. It may be necessary for you to refer to your textbook and/or use other information resources. What effect does the acid have on the enzyme? Looking back, how could you have improved the experiment?
6. Was your hypothesis supported? What is your conclusion?
7. Cite all reference sources used (including text book) and provide a reference section with citations in APA format