Biology Overview

Branches of Biology

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

Biomolecules

• Carbohydrates: provide energy and structure
• Proteins: perform various functions (enzymes, transport, storage)
• Lipids: provide energy and structure
• Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA, store genetic information

Cell Structure

• Plasma membrane: regulates what enters and leaves the cell
• Cytoplasm: gel-like substance inside the cell
• Nucleus: contains genetic material (DNA)
• Mitochondria: generate energy for the cell
• Endoplasmic reticulum: involved in protein synthesis and transport
• Ribosomes: site of protein synthesis
• Lysosomes: contain digestive enzymes

Cellular Processes

• Photosynthesis: process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy
• Cellular respiration: process by which cells generate energy from glucose
• Mitosis: process of cell division
• Meiosis: process of gamete formation

Ecosystems

• Producers: organisms that make their own food (plants)
• Consumers: organisms that obtain energy by consuming other organisms
• Decomposers: organisms that break down dead organic matter
• Food chains: series of organisms that eat other organisms
• Food webs: interconnected food chains

Evolution

• Natural selection: process by which populations adapt to their environment
• Speciation: process by which new species form
• Phylogeny: study of evolutionary relationships between organisms
• Fossil record: chronological record of life on Earth

Human Biology

• Systems of the human body:
  • Nervous system: controls and coordinates body functions
  • Circulatory system: transports oxygen and nutrients
  • Respiratory system: exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide
  • Digestive system: breaks down and absorbs nutrients
  • Immune system: defends against pathogens and diseases