Glossary
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| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Nuclear fusion | The joining of light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy. It powers the Sun and other stars. Science General |
| Nucleotide | The basic structure of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) that, when linked together, form the building blocks of DNA or RNA. They are composed of a phosphate group, a nitrogenous base, and a sugar (deoxyribose or ribose). For all types of living organisms, there are four types of bases in DNA: adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C) and thymine (T). Thymine is replaced by Uracil (U) in RNA. Genetics |
| Nucleus | The organelle of a plant or animal cell that contains the genetic information (DNA). A bacteria cell does not have a nucleus. Genetics |
| Null Hypothesis | The null hypothesis is the claim in scientific research that the effect being studied does not exist. It is is a fundamental statistical concept that states there is no effect, no relationship, or no difference between groups in a population. It acts as a default baseline, assuming that any observed experimental variation or pattern is merely the result of random chance. Science General |
| Numerology | Numerology is the mystical study of the energetic vibrations and symbolic meanings of numbers, often using birth dates and names to reveal character, personality, and life path. Science Misinformation |
| Objectivity | Striving to reach conclusions based on evidence rather than personal feelings, beliefs, or interests. Science General |
| Observation | Information gathered using the senses or instruments. Observations are the starting point for scientific questions and the basis for testing ideas. Science General |
| Observational Study | A study in which researchers measure outcomes without assigning treatments. Can reveal associations but is more vulnerable to confounding than a randomized trial. Science General |
| Occam's Razor | The rule that the simplest explanation is usually the correct one. Science General |
| Ocean Acidification | Increased concentrations of carbon dioxide in sea water causing a measurable increase in acidity (i.e., a reduction in ocean pH). This may lead to reduced calcification rates of calcifying organisms such as corals, mollusks, algae and crustaceans. Climate Change |