Overview of Biology

Biology is the scientific study of life and living organisms.
It encompasses various fields such as genetics, ecology, evolution, and physiology.

Cell Biology
- Study of the structure and function of cells.
- Involves understanding cellular processes, organelles, and communication.
Genetics
- Study of heredity and variation in organisms.
- Focuses on DNA, genes, and the mechanisms of inheritance.
Evolutionary Biology
- Study of the origins and changes in species over time.
- Involves natural selection, adaptation, and speciation.
Ecology
- Study of ecosystems, interactions between organisms, and their environment.
- Examines biodiversity, community dynamics, and conservation.
Physiology
- Study of the functions and mechanisms in living organisms.
- Covers systems such as endocrine, cardiovascular, and nervous systems.

Cell Theory
- All living organisms are composed of cells.
- The cell is the basic unit of life.
- All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Homeostasis
- The ability of organisms to maintain stable internal conditions.
- Involves feedback mechanisms (positive and negative).
Metabolism
- The sum of all chemical reactions within an organism.
- Includes catabolism (breakdown) and anabolism (building up).
Biological Classification
- Organisms are categorized into domains and kingdoms (e.g., Bacteria, Archaea, Eukarya).
- Further classification into phyla, classes, orders, families, genera, and species.

Photosynthesis
- Conversion of light energy into chemical energy by plants, algae, and some bacteria.
- Produces glucose and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water.
Cell Respiration
- Process by which cells obtain energy from glucose.
- Involves glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.
Reproduction
- Asexual (e.g., binary fission, budding) and sexual reproduction.
- Important for genetic variation and species survival.

Proteins
- Composed of amino acids, essential for structure and function.
- Enzymes are proteins that catalyze chemical reactions.
DNA and RNA
- DNA stores genetic information; RNA is involved in protein synthesis.
- DNA structure: double helix; RNA structure: single strand.
Lipids
- Diverse group of hydrophobic molecules (e.g., fats, oils).
- Play roles in energy storage, cell membranes, and signaling.
Carbohydrates
- Sugars and starches that serve as energy sources and structural materials.
- Important for cellular processes and energy storage.

Genomics
- Study of genomes and their functions; implications in medicine and biotechnology.
Biotechnology
- Use of living systems or organisms to develop products (e.g., CRISPR, gene therapy).
Conservation Biology
- Focuses on protecting biodiversity and ecosystems in the face of human impact.
Microbiology
- Study of microorganisms; important for health, industry, and ecology.

Biology is a vast field that integrates numerous specialties and is crucial for understanding life on Earth and addressing global challenges.

Cell Biology: focuses on the structure and function of cells; includes cellular processes, organelles, and communication
Genetics: studies heredity and variation in organisms; focuses on DNA, genes, and the mechanisms of inheritance
Evolutionary Biology: studies the origins and changes in species over time; involves natural selection, adaptation, and speciation
Ecology: studies ecosystems, interactions between organisms, and their environment; examines biodiversity, community dynamics, and conservation
Physiology: studies the functions and mechanisms in living organisms; covers systems such as endocrine, cardiovascular, and nervous systems

Cell Theory:
- All living organisms are composed of cells
- The cell is the basic unit of life
- All cells arise from pre-existing cells
Homeostasis:
- The ability of organisms to maintain stable internal conditions
- Involves feedback mechanisms: positive and negative
Metabolism:
- The sum of all chemical reactions within an organism
- Includes catabolism (breakdown) and anabolism (building up)
Biological Classification:
- Organisms are categorized into domains and kingdoms (e.g., Bacteria, Archaea, Eukarya)
- Further classification into phyla, classes, orders, families, genera, and species

Photosynthesis:
- Conversion of light energy into chemical energy by plants, algae, and some bacteria
- Produces glucose and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water
Cell Respiration:
- Process by which cells obtain energy from glucose
- Involves glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation
Reproduction:
- Asexual (e.g., binary fission, budding) and sexual reproduction
- Important for genetic variation and species survival

Proteins:
- Composed of amino acids, essential for structure and function
- Enzymes are proteins that catalyze chemical reactions
DNA and RNA:
- DNA stores genetic information; RNA is involved in protein synthesis
- DNA structure: double helix; RNA structure: single strand
Lipids:
- Diverse group of hydrophobic molecules (e.g., fats, oils)
- Play roles in energy storage, cell membranes, and signaling
Carbohydrates:
- Sugars and starches that serve as energy sources and structural materials
- Important for cellular processes and energy storage

Genomics:
- Study of genomes and their functions
- Implications in medicine and biotechnology
Biotechnology:
- Use of living systems or organisms to develop products (e.g., CRISPR, gene therapy)
Conservation Biology:
- Focuses on protecting biodiversity and ecosystems in the face of human impact
Microbiology:
- Study of microorganisms
- Important for health, industry, and ecology