Overview of Biology

Study Notes

Overview of Biology

Biology is the study of life, derived from Greek "bios" (life) and "logos" (study).
Biologists examine the structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution of living organisms.

Major Breakthroughs in Biology

Human Genome Project completed in the 21st century, mapping the entire human genome.
Genetic recombination techniques enable the rearrangement of genetic material.
E.coli transformation involves altering the genetics of E.coli bacteria for various applications.
CRISPR-Cas9 technology allows precise editing of DNA sequences.
Dolly the sheep became the first cloned adult mammal, marking a milestone in cloning research.

Divisions of Biological Sciences

Three major branches:
- Zoology: Study of animals
- Botany: Study of plants
- Microbiology: Study of microorganisms

Traditional Branches of Biological Sciences

Taxonomy: Classification and naming of organisms.
Cytology: Study of cell structure and function.
Genetics: Exploration of heredity and variation.
Ecology: Interactions between organisms and their environment.
Physiology: Functions of living organisms and their anatomical systems.
Embryology: Development from fertilization to birth.
Morphology: Form and structure of organisms.
Evolution: Study of the origin and differentiation of species.
Biochemistry: Chemical processes within living organisms.
Immunology: Study of the immune system.

New Subdisciplines in Biology

Molecular Biology: Focus on molecular mechanisms within cells.
Genomics: Analysis of an organism's complete genetic material.
Proteomics: Examination of the protein content in living organisms.
Bioinformatics: Use of software and algorithms to analyze biological data.
Pharmacogenomics: Impact of genetics on individual responses to drugs.

Theories on the Origin of Life

Life originated over 3.8 billion years ago.
Miller-Urey experiment demonstrated organic molecules could form from inorganic components.
Creationism posits life was created by a divine being.
Cosmozoic (Panspermia) Theory suggests life originated from extraterrestrial sources.
Abiogenesis (Spontaneous Generation) proposes life can arise from nonliving matter.
Biogenesis states life originates from existing living organisms.

Key Experiments on Spontaneous Generation

Francesco Redi: Demonstrated that maggots do not arise from covered jars of meat, questioning abiogenesis.
John Needham: Claimed that sealed broth had life, but his findings were contested.
Abbe Lazzaro Spallanzani: Showed that sealed, boiled broth does not grow organisms, supporting the need for air.
Louis Pasteur: Used "swan-neck" flasks in 1861 to argue against spontaneous generation, proving that microorganisms arise from existing life rather than spontaneously from nonlife.

Description

Explore the fascinating field of biology, which encompasses the study of life and living organisms. This quiz covers major breakthroughs, divisions of biological sciences, and traditional branches like taxonomy and cytology. Test your knowledge on the human genome, CRISPR technology, and more!