Chapter 1 - What Is Plant Biology?

An tentative, unproven explanation for something that has been observed

Field of study concerned with the internal structure of plants. Used to determine facts about the past (such as past climates from ancient tree rings) also to help solve crimes (plant tissue under fingernails).

Field of study concerned with plant function

Field of study to describe, name, and classify plants

Field of study related to but broader than taxonomy. The science of developing methods for grouping organisms.

Study of how and why plants are distributed where they are

Study of form and structure of plants, and life-cycle.

Study of the interaction of plants with one another and with their environment

Science of heredity

The science of cell structure and function

Study of the practical uses of plants and plant products for food, medicines, fibers, and other purposes

Following a routine series of steps to test a hypothesis: • make an observation • make a hypothesis • start with the simplest explanation • test hypothesis with controlled experiments • form a theory

The study of plants