Biology Lab

Applied Lab Project

This is the assessment in BIOL 103. It is designed to assess your ability to apply the principles of the scientific method. For this project, you will design an experiment and answer all of the questions below. Make sure to answer all questions.  You must submit this project in your Final Applied Lab Project assignment folder.

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

Design an experiment in which you will test the effect of an acidic fluid on enzymatic activity. (Recall: Enzymes are proteins.) If necessary, it may be useful for you to review the Scientific Method Tutorial (found in the Course Content section of the classroom).

1. What question are you asking? Clearly state your hypothesis.

2. 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.

3. Conduct the experiment and record your results below. What did you observe? Which samples showed bubbling?

4. Use your knowledge about enzymes to interpret your results. It may be necessary for you to refer to your textbook. What effect does the acid have on the enzyme?

5. Was your hypothesis supported? What is your conclusion?

6. Cite all reference sources used and provide a reference section with citations in APA format.