Introduction to Biology

Study Notes

Introduction to Biology

Biology is the scientific study of life and living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, distribution, and taxonomy.
It encompasses a vast array of fields, including botany, zoology, microbiology, and genetics.
Biological systems are characterized by complexity, organization, and adaptation.

Characteristics of Living Organisms

Living organisms share several key characteristics:
- Composed of cells: The basic unit of life.
- Maintain homeostasis: Stable internal environment despite external changes.
- Respond to stimuli: Reactions to external or internal changes.
- Reproduce: Producing offspring, either asexually or sexually.
- Grow and develop: Increase in size and complexity.
- Adapt and evolve: Changes over generations to become better suited to their environment.
- Obtain and use energy: Metabolism.

Key Biological Concepts

Cell Theory: All living organisms are composed of cells and cell products.
Evolution: Change in the heritable characteristics of biological populations over successive generations. Driven by natural selection.
Genetics: The study of genes, heredity, and variation in living organisms. DNA is the fundamental unit.
Metabolism: All chemical reactions occurring within a living organism to maintain life. Includes anabolism (building) and catabolism (breaking down).
Ecology: The study of interactions between organisms and their environment. Includes ecosystems, populations, and communities.

Branches of Biology

Botany: The study of plants.
Zoology: The study of animals.
Microbiology: The study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.
Genetics: The study of genes, heredity, and variation in living organisms.
Physiology: The study of the functions of organisms and their parts.
Ecology: The study of interactions between organisms and their environment.
Molecular Biology: The study of biological processes at the molecular level, focusing on the structure and function of biomolecules.

Biological Macromolecules

Carbohydrates: Organic compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Provide energy and structural support.
Lipids: Fatty acids, fats, oils, and steroids. Store energy, and form cellular membranes.
Proteins: Polymers of amino acids. Perform diverse functions such as catalysis (enzymes), transport, and structural support.
Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA. Store and transmit genetic information.

Biological Processes

Photosynthesis: The process used by plants and other organisms to convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of sugars.
Cellular Respiration: The process by which cells break down glucose to release energy in the form of ATP.
DNA Replication: The process of making a copy of a DNA molecule.
Protein Synthesis: The process of creating proteins using the information encoded in DNA.
Cell Division: The process by which cells reproduce and divide into two daughter cells. Includes mitosis and meiosis.

Biological Systems

Organ Systems: Interact to perform specific bodily functions. Examples include the digestive, respiratory, or circulatory systems.
Organisms: Complex entities composed of multiple organ systems. Interact with their environment.
Populations: Groups of organisms of the same species living in the same area.
Communities: Different populations interacting within a particular ecosystem.
Ecosystem: Living organisms interact with each other and their physical environment (abiotic factors like climate and resources).

Description

Explore the fundamental principles of biology, including the characteristics of living organisms. This quiz covers topics such as cell theory, homeostasis, and the processes of growth and adaptation. Test your knowledge on the diverse fields within biology, including genetics and microbiology.