Chapter 1 BFE - Notes (B.Tech Y-2 CSE Biology for Engineers) PDF

B.Tech Y-2 CSE Biology for Engineers Module 1 1. Science and Engineering Science is the knowing the fact with practical knowledge, understanding and execution of phenomena occu...

B.Tech Y-2 CSE Biology for Engineers Module 1 1. Science and Engineering Science is the knowing the fact with practical knowledge, understanding and execution of phenomena occurring in the cosmos related to human beings. It is cultured through experiments and observations in the specific stream of study like physics, chemistry, mathematics and biology or any other stream of the basic or natural or physical science. It is the foundation and basic of the engineering. Engineering is the doing the fact with the application of science. Engineering implies scientific knowledge to design instruments, processes and structures.  Science is the systematic study of the natural world through observation, experimentation, and theoretical explanations. It seeks to understand how things work and to discover new knowledge.  The primary goal of science is to gain knowledge and understand the principles governing the universe. It answers the "why" and "how" questions about natural phenomena.  Scientific methods are based on forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. It often involves controlled experiments and reproducibility of the results.  The outcome of science is often new theories, models, and understanding that explain natural phenomena. This knowledge can be abstract and theoretical. Generally, Science is largely divided into four main branches which are physics, chemistry, mathematics and biology. These are again subdivided into different branches. Scientists observe the world and engineers focus on the creation. Scientist can be an engineer or an engineer can be a scientist by their contributions. Both fields involve observation and analysis. They are complementary to each other. Science begins with physical system and seeks to develop a descriptive model. Engineering begins with descriptive model and seeks to develop physical system. Scientists and engineers both have the contribution to the world of human knowledge but ways are different. Scientists use the method to sort proper clarifications and extrapolations about the world. Engineers use the engineering structure method to solve the problems.  Engineering is the application of scientific principles to design, build, and optimize structures, machines, systems, and processes. It is a creative discipline focused on solving practical problems. 1   The primary goal of engineering is to create solutions that address specific needs or challenges. It answers the "what" and "how" questions about building and improving technologies.  Engineering methods involve applying scientific knowledge, using design processes, conducting simulations, and testing prototypes. It often requires considering constraints like cost, materials, and safety.  The outcome of engineering is the development of tangible products, systems, or processes that solve real-world problems. These outcomes are often practical and functional. 1.1. Dissimilarities between Science and Engineering:  Science is about discovering and understanding natural laws, while engineering is about applying those laws to create useful technologies and systems.  Science follows a more open-ended process, often leading to further questions and research. Engineering follows a goal-oriented process, aiming for a specific solution or product.  The outcome of scientific work is often theoretical knowledge, while the outcome of engineering is a tangible product, system, or process.  Science is more about discovery and exploration, while engineering involves creativity in designing and building solutions. 2. Biology Biology is the scientific study of life and living organisms. It explores various aspects of life, including structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution. Biology has the separate entity the science. There are different branches of biology like botany, zoology, physiology, microbiology, genetics, ecology etc. The term ‘biology’ was derived from the Greek word ‘bios’ means ‘life’ and the suffix ‘-logia’ means ‘study of’. This biology term was first used by Swedish scientist Carl Linnaeus in his book Bibliotheca Botanica in 1736. Concepts of modern biology stands on the concept of cell biology, evolution, molecular biology, genetics etc. Research of the biology is going on structural, physiological, evolutionary, ecological and environmental. Biologists study everything from tiny cells to complex ecosystems to understand how organisms interact with each other and their environments. Still biology has some unresolved problems. 2  Table 1: Sub-disciplines of Biology It is the study of animals that includes branches such as ethology (animal behaviour), herpetology (reptiles), ichthyology (fish), Zoology or animal biology mammalogy (mammals), ornithology (birds) and entomology (insects). Botany or plant biology Botany is the studies of plants. It is the study of the mechanical, physical, and biochemical Physiology processes of living organisms function as a whole. It is the study of microscopic organisms that includes branches such Microbiology as phycology (algae). Mycology (fungus), virology (virus). Genetics It is the study of genetic material such as DNA and chromosomes. It is the study of biology that focuses on the chemical reactions that Biochemistry make life possible. It is study of the interaction between the environment and the Ecology organisms (living things) that live amongst it. It is a broad discipline in which biological processes, organisms, Biotechnology cells or cellular components are exploited to develop new technologies. It is the direct manipulation of genes of an organism using Genetic engineering/ biotechnology. It is a set of technologies used to change the genetic Genetic modification/ makeup of cells, including the transfer of genes within and across Genetic manipulation species boundaries to produce improved or novel organisms. 2.1. What are the major aspects of biology? 1. Cell Theory - The concept that all living organisms are composed of cells, which are the basic units of life. Cells arise from pre-existing cells, and all vital functions of an organism occur within cells. 2. Genetics, Heredity and Reproduction - The study of how traits are passed from parents to offspring through genes. This includes understanding DNA, genes, chromosomes, and the mechanisms of inheritance. The mechanisms by which organisms produce offspring is reproduction. This includes sexual and asexual reproduction, reproductive strategies, and the life cycles of different organisms. 3. Evolution - The process by which species change over time through mechanisms like natural selection, mutation, gene flow, and genetic drift. This aspect explains the diversity of life and the relationships among different organisms. 3  4. Homeostasis - The ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions. This includes regulation of temperature, pH, and other vital conditions. 5. Energy and Metabolism - The study of how organisms obtain and use energy to sustain life. This includes processes like photosynthesis in plants and cellular respiration in both plants and animals. 6. Structure and Function - The relationship between the physical structure of organisms and their functions. This covers anatomy, physiology, and the ways in which biological structures are adapted to their roles. 7. Growth and Development - The study of how organisms grow and develop from a single cell into a mature individual. This includes embryology, growth patterns, and developmental biology. 8. Adaptation - The ways in which organisms evolve traits that enable them to survive and reproduce in specific environments. This includes behavioural, physiological, and structural adaptations. 9. Molecular Biology - The study of the molecular basis of biological activity, focusing on interactions among DNA, RNA, and proteins. This aspect includes understanding genetic coding, expression, and regulation. 10. Ecology and Biological Diversity - The study of the relationships between organisms and their environments, including ecosystems, population dynamics, and conservation biology. The interactions between organisms and their environments, including ecosystems, food webs, and symbiotic relationships. This also covers ecological principles and biodiversity. The variety of life forms on Earth, including the classification and evolutionary relationships among different organisms. This encompasses taxonomy and systematics. 2.2. Application of Biology Biology has a wide range of applications across various fields. Some key areas where biological principles are applied: 1. Medicine and Healthcare  Used in gene therapy, CRISPR, and the development of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).  Biology helps in understanding disease mechanisms, leading to the creation of targeted therapies.  Techniques like PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and ELISA are used for disease diagnosis.  Stem cell therapy and tissue engineering are used for repairing damaged tissues and organs. 4 2. Agriculture  Genetic modification and selective breeding enhance crop yield, resistance to pests, and environmental stress tolerance.  Biological pest control and organic farming reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. 3. Environmental Science  Strategies for preserving biodiversity and endangered species are based on biological principles. 4. Biotechnology  Use of enzymes, bacteria, and other microorganisms in the production of chemicals, biofuels, and biodegradable plastics.  Designing and constructing new biological parts, devices, and systems for useful purposes.  Application of computational tools to manage and analyze biological data, crucial in genomics and proteomics. 5. Food Science  Use of microorganisms in the production of food and beverages like bread, cheese, yogurt, and beer.  Studying the relationship between nutrition and the human genome to personalize diets. 6. Bioengineering  Development of materials that interact with biological systems for medical implants, prosthetics, and drug delivery systems.  Application of mechanical principles to understand body movements, leading to advancements in prosthetics and orthotics.  Devices that detect biological molecules and are used in diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and food safety. 7. Forensic Science  Identification of individuals based on their unique genetic makeup, used in criminal investigations and paternity testing.  Study of human remains to determine identity and cause of death. 8. Pharmaceuticals  Study of how drugs interact with biological systems to develop new medications.  Tailoring drug treatments based on individual genetic profiles for personalized medicine. 9. Energy Production  Production of energy from biological sources like algae, crop residues, and other organic materials. 5   Use of microorganisms to convert organic compounds into electricity. 10. Nanotechnology  Application of nanotechnology in biological systems for drug delivery, diagnostics, and imaging. Figure 1: Schematic representation: Application of Biology 3. Biology and Engineering Pivotal tendency of science is to proceed from the aggregated system to disaggregated system. Preliminary objective of biology has changed from multicellular organisms to molecular phenomena. Pivotal tendency of engineering is to proceed from disaggregated system to aggregated system and to develop instruments for seeing the molecular phenomena of biology. Biology and engineering are two fields that, when combined, lead to innovative solutions and technologies inspired by the principles of life. Biology draws the idea and engineering apply the ideas with evaluative effect of human benefit to solve the problems. 3.1. Similarities and differences between biology and engineering:- 3.1.1. Similarities between Biology and Engineering: 1. Both biology and engineering involve problem-solving. In biology, organisms adapt to survive in changing environments, while engineers design solutions to meet specific challenges. 2. Both fields require understanding complex systems. In biology, these systems include ecosystems, organisms, and cellular processes. In engineering, systems can range from mechanical devices to software architectures. 3. Both fields emphasize innovation. Biological evolution leads to new traits and species, while engineering creates new technologies and solutions through design and iteration. 4. Both biology and engineering focus on optimizing processes. Biological systems often evolve to be efficient in energy use, while engineers aim to optimize designs for performance, cost, and sustainability. 6  5. Both fields involve the selection and use of materials. Biological organisms utilize a variety of natural materials (e.g., proteins, lipids), while engineers’ select appropriate materials (e.g., metals, polymers) for specific functions. 3.1.2. Differences between Biology and Engineering: 1. Biology studies natural, self-organizing systems that have evolved over millions of years, while engineering deals with human-made systems that are designed and constructed according to specific requirements. 2. Biological systems are often less predictable due to their complexity and the influence of many variables (e.g., genetic variation, environmental factors). In contrast, engineering systems are typically designed to behave in a predictable manner under defined conditions. 3. The primary objective of biology is to understand life and living organisms, whereas engineering is focused on creating solutions to human problems through the application of scientific and mathematical principles. 4. Biological evolution and adaptation occur over long timescales, from generations to millions of years. Engineering projects typically operate on much shorter timescales, from months to a few years, depending on the complexity of the project. 5. Biological research often involves observation, experimentation, and modelling of natural phenomena. Engineering, on the other hand, involves the application of scientific knowledge to design, build, and test new systems or products. 4. Briefly write about discoveries in biology Biology has seen numerous ground-breaking discoveries that have significantly advanced our understanding of life. Some key discoveries include: 1. Cell Theory: The cell theory was proposed by two scientists, Matthias Schleiden (1838) and Theodor Schwann (1839). It says that all the plants and animals are composed of cells and the cell is the basic unit of life. 2. Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection (1859): Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace independently developed the theory of evolution, explaining how species change over time through natural selection. 3. Mendelian Genetics (1865): Gregor Mendel’s experiments with pea plants revealed the basic principles of inheritance, establishing the foundation of genetics. 4. Discovery of Antibiotics (1928): Scottish bacteriologist Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin, the first antibiotic, in 1928, revolutionizing medicine and saving countless lives. 5. HeLa Cell Discovery (1951): The cervical cancer cells that were taken from Henrietta Lacks before she died in 1951 have become a benchmark in the history of cancer research and 7  knowledge. HeLa cells were discovered in 1951 by Johns Hopkins researcher Dr. George Gey during the treatment of Henrietta Lacks. 6. Discovery of DNA Structure (1953): In 1953, James Watson and Francis Crick discovered the three-dimensional structure of DNA, which is considered one of the most famous scientific discoveries of all time. Their discovery was based on evidence from others, particularly Rosalind Franklin and Maurice Wilkins, using a technique called X-ray diffraction. 7. The Central Dogma (1958): Francis Crick articulated the flow of genetic information: DNA → RNA → Protein, which is fundamental to molecular biology. 8. Stem Cell Research: Embryonic stem cells were isolated from mice in 1981. In 1998, Professor James Alexander Thomson and his team at the University of Wisconsin–Madison grew the first human embryonic stem cells in a laboratory dish (in vitro). Discoveries in stem cell biology have revealed the potential of these cells in regenerative medicine and therapy for various diseases. 9. The Human Genome Project: The Human Genome Project (HGP) was an international scientific research project with the goal of determining the base pairs that make up human DNA, and of identifying, mapping and sequencing all of the genes of the human genome from both a physical and a functional standpoint. It started in 1990 and was completed in 2003. It remains the world's largest collaborative biological project. Francis S. Collins, M.D., Ph. D., a physician-geneticist is the father of HGP. 10. CRISPR-Cas9 (2012): The discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 system as a tool for gene editing by Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier has opened up new possibilities in genetics, biotechnology, and medicine. Table 2: Some breakthrough Inventions and Discoveries of the Biology Terms Inventors Cell Robert Hooke Call Theory Schleiden and Schwann Penicillin Alexander Fleming Vaccination Edward Jenner Polio Vaccine Jonas Salk TB (Tuberculosis) bacteria Robert Koch BCG vaccine Albert Calmette and Camille Guérin Streptomycin Selman Waksman Bacteria Antonie van Leeuwenhoek Antigen Karl Landsteiner 8 5. Engineering design inspired by examples of biology/Bio mimicry Biomimicry, or biomimetics, involves taking inspiration from natural organisms and processes to solve human engineering and design challenges. Nature has had billions of years to optimize its designs through evolution, leading to incredibly efficient, resilient, and sustainable solutions. Here are a few examples of engineering designs inspired by biology: 1. Velcro  Inspiration: The burrs of the burdock plant.  Design: Velcro was invented after observing how burrs stuck to clothing and animal fur. The tiny hooks on the burrs cling to looped surfaces, which led to the creation of a two-part fastener system that mimics this mechanism. 2. Bullet Trains  Inspiration: Kingfisher birds.  Design: Japanese engineers looked to the streamlined beak of the kingfisher to design the nose of the Shinkansen bullet train. This design reduced the noise produced when the train exited tunnels and improved aerodynamics, leading to higher speeds and better energy efficiency. 3. Wind Turbine Blades  Inspiration: Whale flippers.  Design: The bumps (tubercles) on the leading edge of humpback whale flippers reduce drag and increase lift, even in turbulent water. Engineers applied this concept to wind turbine blades to enhance their performance in variable wind conditions. 4. Lotus-Effect Surface Coatings  Inspiration: Lotus leaves.  Design: Lotus leaves have a micro- and nano-textured surface that repels water and dirt. This self-cleaning property inspired the development of water-repellent and self-cleaning coatings for surfaces like windows, textiles, and paints. 5. Airplane Wing Design  Inspiration: Bird wings.  Design: Airplanes have borrowed extensively from the structure of bird wings. Features like winglets (the upturned tips of wings) reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency, directly inspired by the way birds like eagles and albatrosses manage airflow over their wings. 6. Self-Healing Materials  Inspiration: Human skin.  Design: Inspired by the way skin heals after being cut or bruised, engineers are developing materials that can repair themselves when damaged. These materials use embedded 9  microcapsules containing healing agents that are released when a crack forms, effectively "healing" the material. 7. Robotic Arms  Inspiration: Elephant trunks and octopus tentacles.  Design: The flexibility, strength, and precision of an elephant’s trunk and an octopus’s tentacles inspire the design of robotic arms and grippers used in medical surgery, manufacturing, and other applications requiring delicate handling. 8. Passive Cooling Systems  Inspiration: Termite mounds.  Design: Termite mounds in Africa maintain a stable internal temperature despite external fluctuations through a natural ventilation system. This principle has been applied in the design of buildings with passive cooling systems, reducing the need for air conditioning and energy consumption. 9. Swimsuits  Inspiration: Shark skin.  Design: Sharks have tiny, tooth-like structures called dermal denticles that reduce drag and allow them to swim efficiently. Swimsuits designed for competitive swimmers have mimicked this texture to reduce drag and enhance performance. 10. Adhesives  Inspiration: Gecko feet.  Design: Geckos can climb smooth surfaces because of the microscopic hair-like structures on their feet, which create strong adhesion through van der Waals forces. This concept has inspired the development of adhesives that can stick to surfaces without leaving a residue. Human eye inspired camera Camera has invented by following the structural part of the eye and their functional role of each part which plays same function. There are the similarities between the structural part and their function of the camera and eye. Eyes belong to the biological part and camera is the invention by engineering. Figure 2: Relationship between camera and human eye 10 Structural and functional similarities between different parts of Camera and eye:  Aperture of camera or Pupil of eye: Light penetrates the eye through the aperture of camera or through pupil of eye.  Diaphragm of camera or Iris of eye: Both part control the intensity of light that penetrates the eye or camera.  Artificial lens of camera or natural lens of eye: Artificial lens focus an object on the film of camera and natural lens of the eye focus an object on the retina.  Film of camera or retina of eye: Images are formed in both cases.  Black paint of camera or choroid of eye: Black paint of camera and melanin pigment of choroid absorbs light and restricts reflection within eye to protect the eye of the vision degradation. Bird inspired Aircraft Birds and airplanes both have the ability to fly, which is governed by the same scientific principle, but their mechanisms differ. Both utilize Bernoulli's principle, which states that faster-moving air has lower pressure, while slower-moving air has higher pressure. In airplanes, the wings are designed with a curved top surface and a flat bottom surface. As air flows over the wing, it travels a longer distance over the curved top than the flat bottom, causing the air on top to move faster than the air underneath. This difference in speed creates a region of lower pressure above the wing and higher pressure below, generating lift, the upward force that keeps both birds and airplanes aloft. Structurally, birds and aircraft share similarities in their design and function related to flight. However, birds are living organisms, while aircraft are engineered inventions inspired by nature. Figure 3: Structural and functional relationship between bird and aircraft Functional Similarities between bird and aircraft parts 1. Propellers of aircraft vs. bird muscles: Both components are responsible for generating lift. 11  2. Streamlined shape of aircraft vs. streamlined shape and lightweight skeleton of birds: Both features reduce drag, allowing for smoother movement through the air. 3. Movement of aircraft wings by engines vs. flapping of bird wings: Both functions are responsible for producing thrust, propelling them forward. 4. Aircraft wings vs. bird tails and wings: Both parts play a crucial role in controlling speed and maneuverability. 5. Aircraft engines vs. bird muscles: Both provide the necessary propulsion for movement. Bernoulli's principle In fluid dynamics, Bernoulli's principle states that an increase in the speed of a fluid occurs simultaneously with a decrease in pressure or a decrease in the fluid's potential energy. The principle is named after Daniel Bernoulli, a Swiss Mathematician, who published it in 1738 in his book ‘Hydrodynamics’. Examples of biomimicry:  Kingfisher-inspired bullet train: The aerodynamic design of the kingfisher's beak inspired the shape of high-speed bullet trains, allowing them to travel at speeds up to 2000 miles per hour while reducing noise and energy consumption.  Gecko-inspired climbing feet: The biomechanics of gecko feet, which allow them to climb vertical surfaces, have been used to develop climbing aids for humans.  Baobab tree-inspired treehouses: The large, swollen trunks of Baobab trees inspired the design of sustainable and sturdy treehouses.  Armadillo-inspired backpack: The flexible and protective nature of armadillos has influenced the design of backpacks that offer enhanced protection and flexibility. 12   Tentacle-inspired prosthetic arm: The flexible and adaptive nature of tentacles, with their simple curling motion, inspired the creation of prosthetic arms that offer a wide range of grips and movements. Other examples include spider-inspired technologies for locating survivors, inchworm-inspired tree- climbing robots, and bird skull-inspired shoe designs, demonstrating the vast potential of biomimicry in engineering and innovation. Do you know? Ken Hibbard, NASA Mission Systems Engineer, shows the one-quarter-scale 3D-printed model of the quadcopter drone named Dragonfly that will land on Titan in 2034. Yet the principles behind dragonfly drones are solid. In fact, NASA has settled on a nuclear- powered autonomous craft called Dragonfly to probe the surface of Saturn’s moon Titan in 2034. NASA’s project is actually a quadcopter rather than a winged drone, but engineers are still convinced they can crack the code of nature’s most gifted flying insect and revolutionize unmanned flight along th Some Important Questions Some Probable Questions: Short answer type Questions What is engineering? What is biology? What do you mean by biomimicry? Write the name of the similar parts of the camera and eye. Write the principle of flying. What is the main scientific principle that allows both birds and airplanes to fly? Write the role biology in our daily life? In what ways do the engines of airplanes and the muscles of birds assist in propulsion? Long answer type questions Describe the structural and functional similarities between the human eye and a camera. How has the design of the camera been inspired by the human eye? Explain the role of the lens in both the human eye and a camera. How do the lenses in these two systems contribute to focusing and image clarity? Discuss the similarities and differences between the image formation processes in the human eye and a camera. Include a comparison of the retina and the film/sensor in your answer. 13  Discuss the scientific principles that enable both birds and airplanes to fly. How does Bernoulli’s principle explain the process of lift in both systems? How do the structural and functional similarities between birds and aircraft illustrate the concept of biomimicry? Provide examples of specific components in both birds and aircraft that serve analogous functions. Evaluate the influence of bird in flight mechanics on the development of aircraft design. How has the study of bird anatomy and flight behaviours contributed to advancements in aviation technology? Write the importance of the study of biology. Describe the relationship between science and engineering. Illustrate the role of engineering in the field of biology. Describe about three engineering designs inspired from examples in biology. Write the difference between bird and aircraft. 14