Related concepts (examples: energy, movement, transformation, models) flashcards

Topic 2: Related concepts (examples: energy, movement, transformation, models)

What is a related concept?

A narrower, discipline-based concept used to explore a key concept in more depth, for example energy, models or evidence.

Which related concepts appear in all three sciences lists?

The guide lists twelve per science. Nine are shared: consequences, energy, evidence, form, function, interaction, models, movement and patterns.

Which related concepts are specific to biology, chemistry and physics?

Biology adds balance, environment and transformation. Chemistry adds balance, conditions and transfer. Physics adds development, environment and transformation. Teachers may add others for local needs.

Key concept versus related concept

Key concepts (change, relationships, systems) are broad and shared across subjects. Related concepts (energy, models, evidence) belong to the discipline.

Why do scientists use models?

To represent relationships that are too large, too slow or too data-heavy to observe directly, such as how a disease spreads through a population or how a star changes over millions of years. Models often use closed systems to limit variables.

Respiration versus combustion

Both release CO₂. Respiration happens in cells and is controlled by enzymes; combustion is burning.

Nitrogen fixation versus nitrification versus denitrification

Fixation: N₂ → ammonium. Nitrification: ammonium → nitrate. Denitrification: nitrate → N₂.

Weathering versus erosion

Weathering is the breakdown of rock in place. Erosion is its removal and transport.