Tutor profile: Calla C.

In scientific writing, is it ever a good idea to use direct quotations? Why, or why not?

Scientific writing is generally concerned more with the idea an author is trying to convey than with the exact way the idea was worded. Therefore, to be as concise as possible, it is best to paraphrase the main idea and always cite the original author.

When solving an equation, what is the proper order of operations?

When solving an equation, first simplify what is within the parentheses. Second, simplify any exponents, working from left to right. Third is to solve all multiplications and divisions, working left to right and fourth, solve all additions and subtractions, from left to right.

What is the difference between the biotic and abiotic factors in an ecosystem?

The biotic factors of an ecosystem are the living parts of the system, such as animals, plants, bacteria and fungi. The abiotic factors are those that are nonliving, such as water, air and soil.