Biology GCE Ordinary Level Syllabus

Flashcards covering key concepts from the Biology GCE Ordinary Level syllabus.

What is photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.

What is the hierarchical organisation of life?

Cells → Tissues → Organs → Systems → Organism.

What four elements are essential for all living organisms?

Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen.

What are the basic unit and its significance in the study of biology?

Cells are the basic unit of life.

What is the role of haemoglobin in red blood cells?

Haemoglobin binds to oxygen for transport around the body.

What are the main types of biological molecules covered in this syllabus?

Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

What is the immediate source of energy in living organisms?

Carbohydrates.

What is the definition of diffusion?

The movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.

What is osmosis?

The diffusion of water across a semi-permeable membrane.

What is active transport?

An energy-consuming process that transports substances against a concentration gradient.

Describe the role of enzymes in biological processes.

Enzymes lower the activation energy needed for reactions and catalyze biochemical processes.

What is the structure of DNA?

DNA is a double helix comprising two strands of nucleotides, consisting of a sugar, phosphate group, and one of four bases.

How are carbohydrates synthesized from glucose?

Large molecules such as cellulose, glycogen, and starch are synthesized from glucose.

What is the main function of the liver related to glucose?

The liver converts glucose to glycogen and vice versa.

What is the main function of red blood cells?

Transport oxygen via haemoglobin.

What do various parts of the human digestive system do?

They perform ingestion, digestion, absorption, assimilation, and egestion of food.

How is the structure of a villus suited for its function?

It is adapted for absorption with a large surface area and contains blood capillaries and lacteals.

What is a hormone?

A chemical substance produced by a gland, carried in the blood, altering the activity of specific target organs.

Define homeostasis.

The maintenance of a constant internal environment.

What is translocation in plants?

The transport of food (mainly sucrose) in the phloem tissue.

What is meant by asexual reproduction?

The production of genetically identical offspring from one parent.

What distinguishes between dominant and recessive alleles?

Dominant alleles express their trait when present, while recessive alleles express their trait only when two copies are present.

What effect do antibiotics have on bacteria?

Antibiotics target bacteria by preventing synthesis of cellular structures but are ineffective against viruses.