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Questions and Answers
What is the primary structural difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
What is the primary structural difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and are simpler, while eukaryotic cells have a nucleus and are more complex.
Explain the role of the mitochondria in a cell.
Explain the role of the mitochondria in a cell.
Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell, as they produce energy in the form of ATP.
Describe the Law of Segregation in Mendelian Genetics.
Describe the Law of Segregation in Mendelian Genetics.
The Law of Segregation states that alleles separate during gamete formation, ensuring each gamete carries only one allele for each gene.
What is natural selection, and why is it important in evolution?
What is natural selection, and why is it important in evolution?
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What functions do decomposers serve in an ecosystem?
What functions do decomposers serve in an ecosystem?
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How does the circulatory system contribute to homeostasis?
How does the circulatory system contribute to homeostasis?
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What is genetic engineering, and provide an application of this technology?
What is genetic engineering, and provide an application of this technology?
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Identify one factor that influences plant growth and explain its significance.
Identify one factor that influences plant growth and explain its significance.
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Study Notes
Cell Biology
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Cell Structure: Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic cells
- Prokaryotic: No nucleus, smaller, simpler (e.g., bacteria)
- Eukaryotic: Has a nucleus, larger, complex (e.g., plants, animals)
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Cell Organelles:
- Nucleus: Contains DNA, control center
- Mitochondria: Powerhouse, produces energy (ATP)
- Ribosomes: Protein synthesis
- Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Smooth (lipid synthesis), Rough (protein synthesis)
- Golgi Apparatus: Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins
- Lysosomes: Digestion and waste removal
Genetics
- DNA Structure: Double helix, made of nucleotides (A, T, C, G)
- Gene: Segment of DNA that codes for a protein
- Chromosomes: Structures made of DNA; humans have 46 (23 pairs)
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Mendelian Genetics:
- Law of Segregation: Alleles separate during gamete formation
- Law of Independent Assortment: Genes for different traits can segregate independently
Evolution
- Natural Selection: Mechanism of evolution; survival of the fittest
- Adaptation: Traits that improve an organism's chance for survival
- Speciation: Formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution
Ecology
- Ecosystems: Composed of living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components
- Food Chains/Webs: Energy flow through ecosystems (producers, consumers, decomposers)
- Biomes: Large geographic biotic units (e.g., forests, deserts, tundras)
Physiology
- Homeostasis: Maintenance of stable internal conditions (e.g., temperature regulation)
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Major Systems:
- Circulatory: Transports blood, nutrients, gases
- Respiratory: Gas exchange (oxygen in, carbon dioxide out)
- Digestive: Breakdown of food, absorption of nutrients
- Nervous: Transmission of signals, coordination of response
Microbiology
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Types of Microorganisms:
- Bacteria: Prokaryotic, can be beneficial or pathogenic
- Viruses: Non-cellular, require a host to replicate
- Fungi: Eukaryotic, decomposers, some are pathogens
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Immunity:
- Innate: Non-specific defenses (skin, mucous membranes)
- Adaptive: Specific defenses (B cells, T cells)
Biotechnology
- Genetic Engineering: Manipulation of an organism's DNA (CRISPR technology)
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Biotechnology Applications:
- Medicine: Gene therapy, vaccines
- Agriculture: GMOs (genetically modified organisms)
- Environment: Bio-remediation techniques
Plant Biology
- Photosynthesis: Process by which plants convert sunlight into energy (glucose) using chlorophyll
- Plant Structure: Key parts include roots, stems, leaves, and flowers
- Plant Growth: Influenced by factors like water, light, and nutrients
Animal Behavior
- Instinct vs. Learning: Instinctual behaviors are innate, while learned behaviors are acquired through experience
- Social Structures: Many animals have complex social systems (e.g., packs, colonies)
- Communication: Various methods (vocalizations, body language, pheromones) used for information transfer
Conclusion
Biology encompasses a wide range of topics, from the microscopic mechanisms of cells to the complexity of ecosystems and the behavior of organisms. Understanding these concepts is essential for exploring the life sciences.
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Description
Test your knowledge on cell biology, including the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cell organelles, and fundamental genetic concepts. This quiz also covers aspects of evolution and natural selection. Perfect for students studying biology at various levels!
