Biological Classification and Cell Structure

Study Notes

Biological Classification

Organisms are categorized into various groups based on shared characteristics, reflecting evolutionary relationships.
The hierarchical system of classification includes domains, kingdoms, phyla, classes, orders, families, genera, and species.
Domain is the broadest category, encompassing Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.
Kingdoms are major subdivisions within domains. E.g., Animalia, Plantae, Fungi.
Each subsequent level refines the characteristics shared by organisms.
Binomial nomenclature, using genus and species names, is a standardized system for naming organisms.

Cell Structure and Function

Cells are the basic structural and functional units of life.
Prokaryotic cells, like bacteria, lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
Eukaryotic cells, found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists, possess a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Plasma membrane surrounds the cell, controlling what enters and exits.
Cell walls are found in plant and fungal cells, providing support and structure.
Cytoplasm is the jelly-like substance inside cells.
Nucleus contains the genetic material (DNA), controlling cellular activities.
Mitochondria are the powerhouses of cells, responsible for cellular respiration.
Chloroplasts are present in plant cells and perform photosynthesis.

Metabolism

Metabolism is the sum of chemical reactions in an organism to maintain life.
Catabolism breaks down complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy.
Anabolism builds complex molecules from simpler ones, requiring energy.
Cellular respiration is a catabolic process that breaks down glucose to produce ATP (energy).
Photosynthesis is an anabolic process used by plants to produce glucose from sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide.

Genetics

Genes are segments of DNA that carry the instructions for building proteins.
DNA replication ensures accurate duplication of genetic material.
DNA transcription converts genetic information from DNA to RNA.
Translation uses RNA to synthesize proteins.
Mutations are changes in DNA sequence, which can lead to altered proteins and potentially new traits.
Inheritance patterns, such as Mendelian genetics and non-Mendelian genetics, describe how traits are passed from parents to offspring.

Evolution

Evolution explains how life has changed over time.
Natural selection is a driving force in evolution, favoring advantageous traits.
Adaptation is the process where organisms acquire traits that improve survival and reproduction in their environment.
Common ancestry connects different species, with shared evolutionary origins.
Speciation is the formation of new species from pre-existing ones.

Ecology

Ecology studies the interactions between organisms and their environment.
Key ecological concepts include ecosystems, habitats, populations, communities, and biomes.
Food chains and food webs describe energy flow through ecosystems.
Nutrient cycling (e.g., carbon cycle, nitrogen cycle) is essential for ecosystem functions.
Human impact on ecosystems, such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change, is a major concern.

Biological diversity

Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth at all levels, from genes to ecosystems.
High biodiversity is important for ecosystem health and stability.
Threats to biodiversity include habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change.
Conservation efforts aim to protect and preserve biodiversity.

Description

Explore the fascinating world of biological classification and cell structure in this quiz. Discover how organisms are categorized and the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Test your knowledge of domains, kingdoms, and the fundamental units of life.