Biology Fundamentals

Branches of Biology

• Botany: study of plants
• Zoology: study of animals
• Microbiology: study of microorganisms
• Ecology: study of interactions between organisms and their environment
• Genetics: study of heredity and variation
• Biochemistry: study of chemical processes in living organisms
• Molecular Biology: study of structure and function of biological molecules

Cell Biology

• Cell: basic unit of life
• Cell membrane: thin layer of lipid and protein molecules surrounding the cell
• Cytoplasm: jelly-like substance inside the cell membrane
• Nucleus: control center of the cell containing DNA
• Mitochondria: organelles responsible for energy production
• Cell division: process of cell growth and reproduction

Biological Molecules

• Carbohydrates: energy source for cells (e.g. glucose)
• Proteins: building blocks of life (e.g. enzymes, hormones)
• Lipids: energy storage molecules (e.g. fats, oils)
• Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA, containing genetic information
• ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate): energy currency of the cell

Evolution

• Natural Selection: process by which species adapt to their environment
• Speciation: formation of new species
• Fossil Record: record of ancient life forms
• Comparative Anatomy: study of similarities and differences between species

Ecology

• Ecosystem: community of living and non-living components interacting in an environment
• Food Chain: sequence of predators and prey
• Food Web: complex network of food chains
• Biodiversity: variety of species in an ecosystem
• Ecosystem Services: benefits provided by ecosystems (e.g. air and water purification)

Test your knowledge of the basics of biology, including branches of biology, cell biology, biological molecules, evolution, and ecology. Learn about the different fields of biology, the structure and function of cells, and the fundamental principles of life.