Life Part A - Char of Life and Levels of Organization

What is asexual reproduction?

A form of reproduction that does not involve the fusion of gametes, resulting in offspring genetically identical to the parent.

What is sexual reproduction?

A form of reproduction that involves the fusion of male and female gametes, resulting in genetically diverse offspring.

What does the cell theory state?

theory states that all living organisms are composed of cells, and all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

What is the difference between unicellular and multicellular organisms?

Unicellular organisms consist of a single cell, while multicellular organisms are composed of multiple cells that work together.

What is an emergent property?

a characteristic of a system that arises from the interactions of its components, not present in the individual parts.

What is homeostasis?

process by which living organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

What is metabolism?

all chemical reactions in a cell, including catabolism (breaking down molecules) and anabolism (building up molecules).

What is the structure of a cell membrane?

The cell membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer that provides a barrier and contains proteins that facilitate communication and transport.

What is a gene?

segment of DNA that contains the instructions for building proteins, which determine traits in an organism.

Autotroph

An organism that makes its own food

heterotroph

organism that obtains energy from the foods it consumes; also called a consumer

Atom

Smallest particle of an element

Molecule

A group of atoms bonded together

cell

Basic unit of life

Tissue

A group of similar cells that perform the same function.

Organ

group of tissues that work together to perform closely related functions

organ system

group of organs that work together to perform a specific function

individual

one single organism

Species

A group of organisms that are closely related and can mate to produce fertile offspring

population

group of individuals of the same species that live in the same area

Community

All the different populations that live together in an area

Ecosystem

A community of organisms and their abiotic environment

abiotic

Non-living

biotic

living

biome

A group of ecosystems that share similar climates and typical organisms

biosphere

part of Earth in which life exists including land, water, and air or atmosphere