Overview of Biology Basics

Biology is the scientific study of life and living organisms.
It encompasses various fields including genetics, ecology, evolution, and microbiology.

Cell Theory
- All living organisms are composed of cells.
- The cell is the basic unit of life.
- All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Genetics
- Study of heredity and variation in organisms.
- Key concepts include DNA, genes, chromosomes, and inheritance.
Evolution
- Change in the heritable characteristics of biological populations over successive generations.
- Natural selection is a primary mechanism of evolution.
Homeostasis
- The ability of an organism to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes.
Ecology
- Study of interactions between organisms and their environment.
- Includes concepts like ecosystems, food webs, and biogeochemical cycles.
Classification of Life
- Organisms are classified into domains: Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukarya.
- Eukarya is further divided into kingdoms: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, and Protista.

Photosynthesis: Process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll.
Cellular Respiration: Metabolic process where cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water.
Reproduction: Process by which organisms produce new individuals; can be sexual or asexual.

Proteins: Composed of amino acids; essential for structure, function, and regulation of the body’s tissues and organs.
Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA; carry genetic information and are involved in protein synthesis.
Carbohydrates: Sugars and starches; important for energy storage and supply.
Lipids: Fats and oils; serve as energy storage, insulation, and make up cell membranes.

Observation: Gathering data through the senses.
Experimentation: Conducting tests to explore hypotheses.
Modeling: Using mathematical and computational models to simulate biological processes.

Charles Darwin: Developed the theory of evolution by natural selection.
Gregor Mendel: Known as the father of genetics for his work with pea plants.
Louis Pasteur: Made significant contributions to microbiology and immunology.

Genomics: Study of genomes; understanding genetic material on a large scale.
Synthetic Biology: Designing and constructing new biological parts and systems.
CRISPR Technology: A tool for editing genomes, allowing for changes to DNA sequences.

Medicine: Understanding diseases, drug development, and genetic testing.
Agriculture: Improving crop yield and disease resistance through biotechnology.
Conservation: Efforts to protect biodiversity and manage ecosystems sustainably.

Biology studies life and living organisms, addressing their structure, function, growth, and evolution.
Key fields include genetics, ecology, evolution, microbiology, and physiology.

Cell Theory:
- Living organisms consist of cells, the fundamental units of life.
- Cells originate from existing cells, ensuring continuity of life.
Genetics:
- Focuses on heredity, variation, and the molecular basis of inheritance involving DNA, genes, and chromosomes.
Evolution:
- Describes the gradual change in heritable traits in populations through mechanisms such as natural selection.
Homeostasis:
- Organisms maintain stable internal environments to adapt to external changes, crucial for survival.
Ecology:
- Examines the interactions between organisms and their surroundings, focusing on ecosystems and food webs.
Classification of Life:
- Organisms are grouped into three domains: Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukarya, with Eukarya further divided into kingdoms: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, and Protista.

Photosynthesis: Converts sunlight into food in green plants using chlorophyll; essential for energy production in many organisms.
Cellular Respiration: Transforms glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide and water; vital for cellular function.
Reproduction: Process of producing new individuals; can occur through sexual or asexual means, ensuring species continuity.

Proteins: Made of amino acids, they are crucial for structure, functions, and regulation in organisms.
Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA, responsible for genetic information storage, transmission, and protein synthesis.
Carbohydrates: Includes sugars and starches, serving as primary energy sources and storage options for organisms.
Lipids: Fats and oils that provide energy storage, insulation, and structure to cell membranes.

Molecule, Cell, Tissue, Organ, Organ System, Organism, Population, Community, Ecosystem, and Biosphere represent hierarchical organization of biological systems.

Observation: Collecting data using senses for understanding biological phenomena.
Experimentation: Testing hypotheses through controlled procedures to draw conclusions.
Modeling: Employing mathematical and computational approaches to simulate biological behaviors and processes.

Charles Darwin: Originated the theory of evolution via natural selection, crucial for understanding species adaptation.
Gregor Mendel: Established foundational genetics principles through experiments with pea plants.
Louis Pasteur: Pioneered microbiology and contributed greatly to immunology, establishing germ theory.

Genomics: Investigates entire genomes to understand genetic contributions to health and disease.
Synthetic Biology: Focuses on engineering new biological systems for various applications.
CRISPR Technology: A revolutionary genome editing tool enabling precise modifications of DNA sequences.

Medicine: Enhances disease understanding, drug development, and genetic testing for personalized treatments.
Agriculture: Utilizes biotechnological advances to boost crop resilience and yield.
Conservation: Promotes biodiversity protection and sustainable environmental management strategies.