Biology Unit 1: Life Processes

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Questions and Answers

What are the two main types of metabolic processes?

Anabolism and catabolism.

How do enzymes influence metabolic activities?

Enzymes regulate and facilitate metabolic reactions.

What role do plasma membranes play in metabolism?

Plasma membranes allow for the transport of essential molecules into cells.

Why is photosynthesis essential for plants?

Photosynthesis synthesizes biomolecules necessary for their metabolism. Signup and view all the answers

What effects do plants have on the ecosystem?

Plants help reduce global warming and maintain biodiversity. Signup and view all the answers

What is homeostasis and why is it important?

Homeostasis is the maintenance of a stable internal environment. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the two phases of photosynthesis.

The light phase is anabolic, while the dark phase is catabolic. Signup and view all the answers

What responsibilities do humans have towards plants?

Humans are responsible for protecting plants as guardians of the biosphere. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of cells in living organisms?

Cells are the structural and functional units of life responsible for various vital processes. Signup and view all the answers

What organism was artificially created by Cambridge researchers through genetic engineering?

Cambridge researchers artificially created E.coli type bacteria. Signup and view all the answers

List the main types of biomolecules and provide one example for each.

The main types of biomolecules are carbohydrates (e.g., Glucose), lipids (e.g., Fats), proteins (e.g., Enzymes), and nucleic acids (e.g., DNA). Signup and view all the answers

Define metabolism and provide two examples.

Metabolism is the set of life-sustaining chemical reactions that enable cells to maintain and regulate their functions. Examples include photosynthesis and cellular respiration. Signup and view all the answers

What are the two types of metabolism, and how do they differ?

The two types of metabolism are anabolism, which builds up molecules, and catabolism, which breaks down molecules. Signup and view all the answers

What role do enzymes and hormones play in metabolism?

Enzymes speed up chemical reactions, while hormones regulate and coordinate various life functions. Signup and view all the answers

Name two examples of metabolic enzymes and their functions.

Salivary amylase breaks down starches in saliva, and pepsin aids in protein digestion in gastric juice. Signup and view all the answers

What are the functions of hormones like testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone?

These hormones regulate sexual functions and reproductive processes. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Life Processes Overview

Vital metabolic processes occur in cells, essential for sustaining life.
Metabolism encompasses both anabolic (building) and catabolic (breaking down) processes.
Homeostasis is crucial for metabolism, maintaining stability within organisms.

Metabolism

Enzymes, hormones, and biomolecules regulate and facilitate metabolic activities.
Anabolism includes synthesis of complex molecules (e.g., glucose from CO2 and water).
Catabolism involves breakdown of molecules to release energy (e.g., amino acids from proteins).

Roles of Biomolecules

Biomolecules are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids vital for life processes.
Common examples include:
- Carbohydrates: Glucose, Fructose, Sucrose, Starch, Cellulose.
- Lipids: Fats, Oils.
- Proteins: Enzymes (e.g., Salivary amylase, Pepsin), Hormones (e.g., Testosterone, Estrogen).
- Nucleic Acids: DNA, RNA.

Metabolic Enzymes and Hormones

Enzymes are proteins that increase the rate of chemical reactions in the body.
Hormones coordinate and regulate bodily functions, impacting growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Photosynthesis

Plants conduct photosynthesis in chloroplasts, comprising two phases:
- Light phase: Anabolic processes converting light energy into chemical energy.
- Dark phase: Catabolic processes that utilize the produced energy.
Essential biomolecules required for plant metabolism are synthesized through this process.

Importance of Plants

Plants provide oxygen and nutrients and are crucial for maintaining ecological balance.
They help combat global warming, prevent natural disasters, and preserve biodiversity.
Conservation of plants is essential for safeguarding the biosphere.

Signs of Life

Living organisms display signs including movement, response to stimuli, respiration, growth, and reproduction.
Cells serve as structural and functional units of life.

Genetic Engineering

Cambridge researchers artificially created E. coli type bacteria through genetic engineering techniques.

Endocrine System

Endocrine glands are responsible for hormone secretion, influencing various metabolic activities.

Key Terminology

Homeostasis: Stable internal environment within organisms.
Biomolecules: Basic building blocks necessary for structure and life functions.

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Description

This quiz covers the essential life processes outlined in Unit 1, including metabolism, the environment, ecosystem dynamics, and the significance of plants. Explore how metabolic activities are crucial for sustaining life through cellular mechanisms and the importance of photosynthesis and nutrient cycles.