General Biology.docx

**General Biology** **[Lesson 1: The Cell]** **What are Mitosis and Meiosis?** **Mitosis** is the process of cell division that produces two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. This form of cell division functions in growth, tissue repair, and asexual reproduction in s...

**General Biology** **[Lesson 1: The Cell]** **What are Mitosis and Meiosis?** **Mitosis** is the process of cell division that produces two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. This form of cell division functions in growth, tissue repair, and asexual reproduction in some organisms. Mitosis is part of the cell cycle. **Meiosis**, on the other hand, produces gametes (sperm and egg cells in animals, and spores in plants and fungi). It results in four non-identical daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell. This process is crucial for sexual reproduction and genetic diversity.  - - - **CELL** *Why do you think the cell is considered as the basic unit of life?* Cells are considered the basic unit of life because they are the smallest structures capable of performing all the functions necessary for life. **Structural Organization:** Cells are the smallest units that exhibit all the characteristics of life. They have organized structures and internal components (organelles) that perform specific functions, such as energy production, protein synthesis, and waste removal. **Functional Independence:** Each cell can carry out essential life processes independently. These processes include metabolism (the chemical reactions that provide energy and build cellular structures), homeostasis (maintaining a stable internal environment), and reproduction. **Genetic Information:** Cells contain genetic material (DNA) that guides the development, functioning, and reproduction of the organism. This genetic code is fundamental for heredity and for the transmission of traits from one generation to the next. **Reproduction:** Cells can reproduce on their own through processes like mitosis and meiosis, allowing for growth, repair, and the continuation of life. **Response to Stimuli:** Cells can respond to environmental changes and stimuli, which is essential for survival. This includes adapting to changes, communicating with other cells, and maintaining equilibrium. **Multicellular organisms** are **macroscopic**, which means they can be seen by the unaided eye. **Unicellular organisms**, on the other hand, are **microscopic**, which means they are so small that you cannot see them with unaided eyes. You have to use a microscope to see them. The **Microscope** is an instrument used to view objects that cannot be seen by an unaided eye. It can magnify the size of small objects. **The Invention of the Microscope and Discovery of the Cell** - - - - - -  **The Cell Theory** - - - **Schleiden and Schwann** The first to point out that all plants and animals are composed of cells. **CELL THEORY** - - - - - - **Virchow and Remak** - - **Parts of the Cell and Their Functions** All the processes that occur within an organism are supported by the cell. The cell contains different parts, called **Organelles**, which carry out different functions. Some of these organelles are featured in Parts of an Animal Cell. 1. - - - - 2. - 1. 2. 3. - - - - -  **3. Centrioles** 4. - - - - - 5. - - - 6. - - -  - - 7. - - - - - 8. - -  9. - - 10. - - - - 11. - - 12. -  13. - - **[Plant Cell Structure ]**  1. - - - - - - - - - 2. - - - - 3. - -