Questions and Answers
The smallest unit of matter that retains all the chemical properties of an element is called an ______.
atom
Organisms that lack a membrane-bound nucleus are known as ______.
prokaryotes
Groups of similar cells that perform specific functions are called ______.
tissues
The ability to pass on genetic material from parent to offspring is known as ______.
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The process by which organisms respond to diverse stimuli within their environment is called ______.
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The change in frequency of traits in populations and species over time is referred to as ______.
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A collection of ecosystems is known as the ______.
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Large molecules formed by polymerization are called ______.
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The process of maintaining a stable internal environment is known as ______.
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The smallest fundamental unit of structure and function in living organisms is a ______.
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Study Notes
Fundamental Concepts of Biology
- Atom: Basic unit of matter; retains all chemical properties of an element.
- Molecule: Formed by two or more atoms joined together.
- Macromolecules: Large molecules created through polymerization, e.g., DNA.
- Organelles: Tiny structures that perform specific functions within cells.
- Cell: Smallest unit of structure and function in living organisms.
- Prokaryotes: Single-celled organisms lacking a membrane-bound nucleus.
- Eukaryotes: Organisms with membrane-bound organelles and nucleus; can be single or multi-celled.
- Tissue: Groups of similar cells working together for specific functions.
- Organs: Combinations of tissues that collectively perform specific tasks.
- Organ System: Groups of organs working in concert.
- Population: Individuals of the same species inhabiting a specific area.
- Community: The aggregate of various populations in a certain area.
- Ecosystem: Comprises all living organisms and their physical environment.
- Biosphere: The global sum of all ecosystems.
Key Characteristics of Life
- Reproduction: Essential for life; ability to produce offspring.
- Heredity: Transmission of genetic material from parent to offspring.
- Cellular Organization: Organized structures comprising one or more cells.
- Growth and Development: Progression toward physical and mental maturity, guided by genetic information.
- Adaptation through Evolution: Continuous evolution in response to environmental changes.
- Response to Stimuli: Organisms react to environmental factors (e.g., plant movement).
- Homeostasis: Maintenance of stable internal conditions.
- Metabolism: Chemical processes that occur within organisms to maintain life.
Detailed Aspects of Life
- Reproduction Mechanism: Single-celled organisms duplicate DNA and divide, leading to new cell formation.
- Genetic Information: Genes provide instructions for inheritance of traits; differentiate between phenotypic (appearance) and genotypic (genetic code) traits.
- Cellular Complexity: Range from simple, single-celled organisms to complex multicellular structures.
- Behavioral Response: Organisms exhibit movements largely aimed at survival, such as finding food or avoiding threats.
- Natural Selection: Mechanism by which individuals more suited to their environment have greater reproductive success, influencing population traits over generations.
- Evolutionary Change: Dynamics involving frequency shifts of traits within populations and species over time.
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Description
Explore the foundational terms and ideas in biology, including atoms, molecules, cells, and ecosystems. This quiz covers essential definitions and concepts that are crucial for understanding living organisms and their interactions. Test your knowledge on the basic building blocks of life.
