General Biology - BIO1001 Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the General Biology course, focusing on definitions and essential knowledge within the subject matter.

Biological Sciences

The study of living organisms and their interactions with the environment.

Public Health

The practice of protecting and improving the health of people and their communities.

Cell Theory

States that the cell is the basic unit of life and that all living things are composed of one or more cells.

Prokaryote

A microscopic single-celled organism that lacks a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryote

An organism whose cells contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Mitochondria

Organelles known as the powerhouse of the cell, converting carbohydrates into energy (ATP) via cellular respiration.

Chloroplast

An organelle found in plant cells that conducts photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy.

Ribosome

Molecular machines within cells that synthesize proteins from amino acids.

Cell Membrane

A lipid bilayer that encloses the cell and regulates the passage of substances in and out.

Nucleus

The organelle that contains genetic material (DNA) and governs the activities of the cell.

Plasmid

A small, circular DNA molecule found in bacteria that is separate from chromosomal DNA.

Vacuole

A membrane-bound organelle in plant cells used for storage and maintaining turgor pressure.

Lysosome

An organelle containing digestive enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris.

Cell Wall

A rigid layer that surrounds the cell membrane in plants, providing structure and protection.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment within an organism.

Photosynthesis

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

Cellular Respiration

The metabolic process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy (ATP), carbon dioxide, and water.

Organism

Any individual living thing, such as plants, animals, fungi, and bacteria.

Chromatin

A complex of DNA and proteins that forms chromosomes within the nucleus.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

An extensive network of membranes involved in the synthesis and transport of proteins and lipids.

Golgi Apparatus

An organelle that processes and packages proteins and lipids before they are sent to their destinations.