BIO 110 Final Exam Review

When a statistical test (like a t-test) results in a p-value below a predetermined threshold (often 0.05), we reject the null hypothesis. This means there's strong evidence to suggest a real difference between the groups being compared.

Viruses, despite not being considered living organisms, can evolve. This means their genetic information can change over time, leading to new strains or adaptations.

An essential amino acid is one that your body cannot synthesize on its own and must be obtained through your diet.

An abiotic factor is a non-living component of an ecosystem. These factors can influence the survival and distribution of organisms.

DNA and RNA differ in their sugar component (deoxyribose vs ribose), their structure (double helix vs single strand), and their nitrogenous bases (thymine vs uracil).

Species A and B are more closely related than Species C and D because they share a more recent common ancestor. This can be inferred because they belong to the same family but not the same genus.

Polar molecules have uneven charge distributions, leading to regions of partial positive and negative charge. These regions allow for hydrogen bonding, a strong attractive force between molecules.

A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of a phenomenon that is supported by a large body of evidence and has been repeatedly tested and confirmed. It is not just a guess but a highly robust explanation.

Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a single-stranded molecule that carries genetic information from DNA in the nucleus to ribosomes in the cytoplasm, where proteins are synthesized.

Genetic variation refers to the differences in DNA sequences between individuals within a population.

mRNA vaccines introduce a piece of genetic code (mRNA) that instructs cells to produce a specific protein, triggering an immune response without the need for the actual virus.

A recombinant organism is produced when genetic material from one organism is inserted into another, creating a genetically modified organism (GMO).

The phenotype of an organism refers to its observable characteristics, which are influenced by both its genotype (genes) and environmental factors.

Movement of molecules across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient, requiring energy. This process moves molecules from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration, unlike passive transport.

The theory that explains the origin of eukaryotic cells from prokaryotic cells. It suggests that mitochondria and chloroplasts were once independent prokaryotes that were engulfed by larger cells and established a symbiotic relationship.

The three main components of cell theory are: 1) All living organisms are composed of one or more cells. 2) The cell is the basic unit of structure and function in all living organisms. 3) All cells arise from pre-existing cells. A notable exception is the first cell, which is believed to have originated from non-living matter.

The enzyme responsible for carbon fixation during the Calvin cycle in photosynthesis. It catalyzes the reaction of carbon dioxide with RuBP, a sugar molecule, to produce a six-carbon compound.

There are four fundamental laws of thermodynamics: 1) Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. 2) The entropy of a closed system always increases, meaning disorder tends to increase. 3) All free energy cannot be recaptured by organisms, some is lost as heat. 4) The entropy of a substance at absolute zero becomes constant.

The strength of the attraction between an enzyme and its substrate. Factors like pH and temperature can affect this attraction, changing the rate of enzymatic reactions.

A chemical reaction involving the transfer of electrons from one atom or molecule to another. One substance loses electrons (oxidation) while another gains electrons (reduction).

Humans need oxygen for aerobic respiration, where glucose is broken down to produce energy (ATP). Oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain, crucial for generating a proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis.

Plants release oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis. During the light-dependent reactions, water molecules are split, releasing oxygen as a waste product. This oxygen is essential for the process of aerobic respiration in most organisms.

From a metabolic point of view, humans need water to facilitate numerous biochemical reactions in the body. Water acts as a solvent, allowing reactions to occur and transporting molecules. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining cell structure and temperature regulation.

We breathe heavily after intense exercise to replenish oxygen levels in the body and clear the accumulated carbon dioxide from the blood. During strenuous activity, the body utilizes oxygen at a rapid rate, causing oxygen debt. After exercise, the body needs to restore oxygen levels and remove accumulated carbon dioxide, which is why we breathe heavily.