9th grade biology EOC P2

Characteristics of Living Things

All living organisms require energy, maintain homeostasis, respond to stimuli, reproduce similar offspring, and are made of cells.

Mitochondria

Organelles responsible for energy production through ATP formation.

Diffusion

The movement of substances from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.

Types of RNA

mRNA carries genetic information, rRNA forms ribosomes, and tRNA brings amino acids to ribosomes.

Homozygous

Individuals with two identical alleles for a trait.

Heterozygous

Individuals with two different alleles for a trait.

Energy Flow in Ecosystems

Energy flows from sunlight to producers, then to consumers, and decomposers in a one-way direction.

Natural Selection

The process where organisms with favorable traits survive and reproduce more successfully.

Active Transport

The movement of materials across cell membranes that requires energy.

Ecology

The scientific study of interactions between organisms and their environment.

Eukaryotes vs. Prokaryotes

Eukaryotes have membrane-bound structures and a true nucleus, while prokaryotes do not.

Osmosis

The diffusion of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane.

Cellular Respiration Equation

C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O + energy.

Binomial Nomenclature

The two-word naming system for species, consisting of the genus and species names.

Mutation Significance

Mutations are changes in DNA sequences that can lead to genetic variation.

Symbiosis

A close relationship between two different species where at least one benefits.

Facilitated Transport

Transport of substances across the plasma membrane with the help of protein molecules.

Trophic Levels

Levels in a food chain representing the position of organisms in terms of energy flow.

Primary Succession vs. Secondary Succession

Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas, while secondary succession occurs where a disturbance has cleared existing life.

Function of Nucleus

The nucleus contains DNA, controlling cellular functions.

Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

The flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to proteins.

Biogeochemical Cycles

Pathways through which essential elements circulate through the environment.

Mutualism Definition

A symbiotic relationship where both species benefit.

Endocytosis vs. Exocytosis

Endocytosis is the process of taking in materials; exocytosis expels materials from the cell.

Taxonomy

The science of classifying and naming organisms based on similarities.

Genotype vs. Phenotype

Genotype refers to the genetic makeup; phenotype is the observable traits.

Types of Symbiotic Relationships

Includes mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism.

Food Chain

A linear illustration of energy flow through an ecosystem.

Photosynthesis Equation

6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2.

Meiosis

Type of cell division that produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes.

Function of Ribosomes

Ribosomes are sites of protein synthesis.

Mitosis

The process of cell division resulting in two identical daughter cells.

Homeostasis Definition

The ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

Adaptations

Inherited traits that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce.

Niche in Ecology

The role a species plays in its community, including diet and habitat.

Exponential Growth in Populations

A J-curve pattern where population growth accelerates as ideal conditions persist.

Pioneer Species

First organisms to populate an area during primary succession.

Nitrogen Fixation

The process by which bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms for plants.

Secondary Succession

Occurs after disturbance, leading to faster ecosystem recovery compared to primary succession.

Significance of Adaptations

Traits that enhance an organism's survival and reproductive success.

Trophic Level Definition

A position in a food chain or web representing energy flow from producers to consumers.

Types of Cell Division

Mitosis for somatic cells and meiosis for gamete formation.

Significance of Genetic Variation

Crucial for population adaptability and survival in changing environments.

Carrying Capacity

The maximum stable population size that an environment can support.

Role of Decomposers

Break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Significance of Enzymes

Proteins that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed, facilitating biological processes.

Natural Selection Concept

The process where favorable traits enhance survival and reproduction, leading to evolutionary changes.

Carbon Cycle

Continuous movement of carbon through the atmosphere, oceans, land, and living organisms.

Photosynthesis Process

Conversion of light energy into chemical energy by plants, producing glucose and oxygen.

Function of Chloroplasts

Capture solar energy for photosynthesis, converting it into chemical energy.

Climax Community

A stable and mature ecosystem with balanced plant and animal populations.

Density-Dependent Limiting Factors

Population growth factors that intensify as density increases, such as competition.

Energy Transfer Efficiency

Approximately 10% efficiency of energy transfer between trophic levels.

Role of Plasma Membrane

Controls the movement of materials into and out of the cell, maintaining homeostasis.

Function of Golgi Apparatus

Modifies, sorts, and ships proteins and lipids for secretion or cell use.

Definition of Speciation

The process through which new species are formed through evolution.

Definition of Symbiosis

Close associations between two organisms of different species, with at least one benefitting.

Significance of Central Dogma

Describes the flow of genetic information essential for cellular function.