I just have a few questions to clear up.
1) Is polymorphism/ monomorphism important and if so what are they, as all the definition I have read vary significantly.
2) What is biogeography and how does it support the theory of evolution?
3) What is ELISA and why is it used?
4) How Electron Spin Resonance functions as an absolute dating method
5) Also for an experimental question, I seem to be struggling with:
- comparisons when they give a graph with an effect of different concentrations of variables, what should I include on these and are there any important phrases to implement such as ‘positive correlation’
- general ways experiments could be improved, I have increase sample size, repeat experiment but are there any more?
- structure for the hypothesis. In every exam whether it be VCAA or private papers the way they begin or end hypothesis varies and I’m afraid I won’t correctly phrase my hypothesis on Friday.
- what should be included in a conclusion.
Thanks guys and girls
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1. I don't think monomorphisms and polymorphisms are important, but I can't hurt knowing.
- Polymorphisms are traits of multiple variants
- monomorphisms are traits of one variant
2. Biogeography is basically the study of the geological distribution of species. In studying and understanding evolution of species it is important (i.e. tectonic drift helps explain the evolution of many animals), but unlike other commonly quoted 'evidence of evolution' like fossils, I do not think biogeography is evidence in of itself. (please correct me I am being incorrect)
3. ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) as far as is relevant to us, is a test that can be used to determine the presence of an antigen. A sample (perhaps containing our antigen on interest) will be attached to a surface of a well and antibodies of specificity complimentary to our desired antigen will be added. This antibody has bound to its constant region a specific enzyme. If the specific antigen is present then the antibody will bind, if no antigen then no binding. A substrate specific to the enzyme attached to the antibody is then added into the well and will interact with the enzymes on the bound antibody (if there are any). Usually, the enzyme and substrate employed will produce a visible color change upon reaction to indicate the presence of the particular antigen (the stronger the color change the more antigen present).
This is all from quick research though so if anyone else is more knowledged, please correct me.
4. Electron spin resonance works of the idea that specific minerals will collect/absorb electrons from cosmic rays and surrounding earth at a specific rate. This will create a magnetic effect of a measurable amplitude indicating the age of the mineral. this is accurate and applicable for minerals a few thousand to a couple million years old.
5.
- When they ask you to compare or describe relationships, I think it is satisfactory just to say as A increases, B decreases (or whatever the relationship is). Then if the question also asks you to explain you will have to do that. I don't think terms like 'positive correlation' are necessary for such an analysis.
- you can control the subjects/samples used in the test (i.e. make sure all mice are of the same age, breed, and gender (if applicable to the experiment)). You can also note to control other environmental variables. These are all to increase the accuracy of the data and thus improving the experiment.
- I would think it is satisfactory to phrase it as: "As X changes Y will occur due to...". Just make sure you have the IV and the DV in there and any relevant theory.
- conclusions should mainly relate back to the success of the experiment in proving/disproving the hypothesis and then summerise the results collected.