Cell Biology and Genetics Quiz

Study Notes

Cell Biology

Cell Theory: All living organisms are made up of cells; the cell is the basic unit of life; all cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Types of Cells:
- Prokaryotic: No nucleus, smaller size, examples include bacteria.
- Eukaryotic: Nucleus present, larger size, include plant and animal cells.
Cell Organelles:
- Nucleus: Contains DNA; control center of the cell.
- Mitochondria: Powerhouse of the cell; site of ATP (energy) production.
- Chloroplasts: Found in plant cells; site of photosynthesis.
- Ribosomes: Protein synthesis.

Genetics

DNA Structure: Double helix, composed of nucleotides (adenine, thymine, cytosine, guanine).
Gene Expression: Process from DNA to RNA to protein; includes transcription and translation.
Mendelian Genetics:
- Laws of Segregation: Each organism inherits two allele copies; alleles segregate during gamete formation.
- Laws of Independent Assortment: Genes for different traits are inherited independently.

Evolution

Natural Selection: Process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.
Speciation: Formation of new species through processes such as allopatric and sympatric speciation.
Evidence of Evolution: Fossil records, comparative anatomy, molecular biology, and embryology.

Ecology

Levels of Organization:
- Individual: A single organism.
- Population: Group of individuals of the same species.
- Community: Different species living together.
- Ecosystem: Community and its physical environment.
Biomes: Major ecological communities defined by their climate and plant/animal life (e.g., tundra, rainforest, desert).

Physiology

Homeostasis: Maintenance of stable internal conditions (temperature, pH, etc.).
Organ Systems:
- Nervous System: Controls and coordinates body activities through electrical signals.
- Endocrine System: Regulates bodily functions through hormones.
- Circulatory System: Transports nutrients, gases, and wastes throughout the body.

Botany and Zoology

Photosynthesis: Process by which plants convert sunlight into chemical energy; occurs in chloroplasts.
Animal Behaviors: Innate vs. learned behaviors; survival strategies such as predation, foraging, and mating.

Microbiology

Types of Microorganisms: Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.
Roles: Decomposition, nitrogen fixation, disease causation, and food production (e.g., fermentation).

Biotechnology

Applications: Genetic engineering, cloning, CRISPR technology, and biopharmaceuticals.
Ethical Considerations: Genetic privacy, bioethics in medical treatments, and environmental impacts.

Description

Test your knowledge on cell biology and genetics concepts, including cell theory, types of cells, and the structure of DNA. This quiz covers essential topics such as organelles, gene expression, and Mendelian genetics. It's perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding in these foundational biological areas.