biology final

MRS GREN

An acronym representing the characteristics of life: Movement, Respiration, Sensitivity, Growth, Reproduction, Excretion, Nutrition.

Cell Theory

States that all living things are composed of cells, cells are the basic unit of life, and all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Gene Theory

Suggests that the traits and functions of living organisms are determined by genes found in DNA.

Homeostasis

The ability of living organisms to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in the external environment.

Mitochondria

Organelles known as the powerhouse of the cell; they produce ATP through cellular respiration.

Passive Transport

Movement of molecules across a cell membrane without the need for energy input, e.g., diffusion, osmosis.

Active Transport

The movement of molecules across a membrane using energy, typically against a concentration gradient.

Prokaryotes

Single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus; examples include bacteria.

Eukaryotes

Organisms whose cells contain a nucleus and organelles; includes plants and animals.

Ionic Bond

A type of chemical bond formed between two ions with opposite charges.

Covalent Bond

A chemical bond that involves the sharing of electron pairs between atoms.

Hydrogen Bond

A weak attraction between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an electronegative atom and another electronegative atom.

pH Scale

A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, determined by the concentration of hydrogen ions.

Aerobic Respiration

A form of cellular respiration that requires oxygen and produces ATP through glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.

Anaerobic Respiration

A form of respiration that occurs without oxygen, producing ATP through glycolysis followed by fermentation.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll.

Central Dogma

The framework explaining the flow of genetic information; DNA transcribed to mRNA, which is then translated to protein.

Genetic Disorder

An illness caused by abnormalities in genes or chromosomes.

Natural Selection

The process through which species adapt to their environment; those better adapted to their environment tend to survive and reproduce.

Ecology

The branch of biology that studies the interactions of organisms with one another and with their environment.

Ecological Succession

The process of change in the species composition of an ecological community over time.

Population Density

The number of individuals in a specific area or volume.

Conservation

The responsible management of natural resources to prevent depletion or destruction.

Taxonomy

The science of classification of living organisms.

Bacteria

Microscopic single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus and are classified as prokaryotes.

Neuron

A specialized cell transmitting nerve impulses; the basic building block of the nervous system.