Biology1.txt

• – composed of cells
• – complex and ordered
• – Sensitivity - respond to their environment
• – can grow and reproduce
• – obtain and use energy
• – Homeostasis - maintain internal balance
• – allow for evolutionary adaptation

The basic unit of life.

Atoms > Molecules > Organelles > Cells

Tissues > Organs > Organ Systems > Organisms

Population > Species > Community > Ecosystem

New properties present at one level that are not seen in the previous level

Uses general principles to make specific predictions.

Uses specific observations to develop general conclusions.

A possible explanation for an observation.

• -tests the hypothesis
• -must be carefully designed to test only one variable at a time
• -consists of a test experiment and a control experiment

To break a complex process down to its simpler parts.

To simulate phenomena that are difficult to study directly.

• is a proposed explanation for a natural phenomenon.
• it is also the body of interconnected concepts, supported by scientific reasoning and experimental evidence. Expresses ideas of which we are most certain.
• Scientific theory = solid ground of science.

Used to extend the boundaries of current knowledge, and provides the scientific foundation used in applied research.

• Served as a naturalist on a mapping expedition around coastal South America (Galapagos Islands)
• Traveled on the H.M.S. Beagle
• Used many observations to develop his ideas Proposed that evolution occurs by natural selection.

Modification of a species over generations -“descent with modification”

Individuals with superior physical or behavioral characteristics are more likely to survive and reproduce than those without such characteristics.

Organisms produce more offspring than could survive.

An inherited variation that increases an organism’s chance of survival in a particular environment.

Those most “fit” for an environment survive.

Those organisms that survive in an environment reproduce and have offspring which may have the characteristics that allowed their parents to survive.

A group of organisms can only reproduce successfully among its members.

• Have same evolutionary origin, but different structure and function.
• Example: Mamal Arms

• Have similar structure and function, but different evolutionary origin.
• Example: Fly Wings

Structures that are no longer functional.

Branching diagram or "tree" showing the inferred evolutionary relationships among various biological species.

All living organisms are made of cells, and all living cells come from preexisting cells.

• DNA encodes genes which control living organisms and are passed from one generation to the next.
• Example: 23 chromosomes passed from each parent into their children.

The proper function of a molecule is dependent on its structure. The structure of a molecule can often tell us about its function.

Living organisms have evolved from the same origin event. The diversity of life is the result of evolutionary change.

Critical characteristics of early organisms are preserved and passed on to future generations.

Cells process information stored in DNA as well as information received from the environment.