Introduction to Biology: Life's Hierarchy, Cellular Organization, and Ecosystem Dynamics

Biological Inquiry

The exploration of fundamental questions about life and its processes.

DNA

A molecule that carries genetic information in living organisms.

Gene

A discrete structural unit of DNA that directs the synthesis of specific proteins.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment in an organism.

Cellular Respiration

The biochemical process by which cells convert glucose into ATP.

Photosynthesis

The process by which autotrophic organisms capture light energy to produce chemical energy.

Population

A group of interacting individuals of the same species within a specific area.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells that have a membrane-bound nucleus and organelles.

Prokaryotic Cells

Structurally simple and smaller cells that lack a membrane-bound nucleus.

Domain Bacteria

A domain of life composed of unicellular prokaryotic organisms.

Domain Archaea

A domain of life made of unicellular prokaryotes with distinct genetic sequences, often found in extreme environments.

Domain Eukarya

A domain of life comprised of complex organisms with eukaryotic cells.

Ecosystem

A community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment.

Metabolic Pathways

The series of chemical reactions within a cell that convert substrates into products.

Emergent Properties

Properties that arise from the complex interactions of simpler components in a system.

Cyclic Nutrient Flow

The continuous recycling of chemical nutrients in an ecosystem.

Extinction

The end of an organism or a group of organisms.

Speciation

The formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.