Characteristics of Living Organisms, Levels of Organization, and Cell Structure

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the eight characteristics of life, biological levels of organization, cell structures, and stem cell differentiation.

Cellular Organization

The characteristic stating that all living organisms are composed of one or more cells, which serve as the basic units of life.

Metabolism

All the chemical reactions that occur within an organism to maintain life, including catabolism and anabolism.

Catabolism

The metabolic process of converting food into energy.

Anabolism

The metabolic process of synthesizing cellular components.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment within an organism despite changes in the external environment.

Growth and Development

The biological process directed by genetic instructions, typically involving cell division and differentiation to increase size and complexity over time.

Reproduction

The ability of organisms to pass genetic information to their offspring, either sexually with two parents or asexually with a single parent.

Response to Stimuli

The capacity of living organisms to react to environmental factors such as light, temperature, and sound to aid survival.

Adaptation through Evolution

The process by which populations of organisms evolve over time via natural selection, acquiring traits that promote survival and reproduction.

Organelle

A subunit within a cell that performs specific functions, such as energy production or protein synthesis.

Cell

The basic unit of life, capable of performing all life processes.

Tissue

A group of similar cells working together to perform a common function.

Organ

A biological structure composed of two or more types of tissues that work together to perform specific functions.

Organ System

A group of organs that work collectively to carry out complex bodily functions.

Cell Membrane

A protective barrier that regulates what enters and leaves the cell, maintaining cellular integrity.

Cytoplasm

The gel-like substance within the cell where organelles are suspended.

Nucleus

The control center of the cell that contains genetic material.

Mitochondria

The powerhouse of the cell, responsible for producing energy through cellular respiration.

Ribosomes

Organelles that serve as the sites for protein synthesis.

Cell Wall

A structural feature present in plant cells but absent in animal cells.

Chloroplasts

Organelles present in plant cells for photosynthesis, but absent in animal cells.

Central Vacuole

An organelle that is often large and central in plant cells, but small or absent in animal cells.

Cell Differentiation

The process essential for developing specialized cells that perform specific functions, enabling diverse tissues and organs.

Stem Cells

Cells that possess the potential to differentiate into various cell types, making them valuable in medicine for regenerative therapies.