Comprehensive Biology Review: Cell, Genetics, Evolution, Ecology, and Conservation

What are the characteristics of life?

Life is organized, requires materials and energy, responds to stimuli, has adaptations, and maintains homeostasis.

What are the steps of experimental design?

The steps include asking a question, constructing a hypothesis, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.

What is the HONC rule?

The HONC rule states that hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon typically form the backbone of organic molecules, with carbon forming four bonds.

What is the Octet Rule?

The Octet Rule states that atoms tend to bond in such a way that they have eight electrons in their valence shell, achieving a stable electron configuration.

What are the different types of chemical bonds?

The main types of chemical bonds are covalent bonds, ionic bonds, and hydrogen bonds.

What is the difference between non-polar and polar covalent bonds?

Non-polar covalent bonds share electrons equally between atoms, while polar covalent bonds share electrons unequally, resulting in partial charges.

What are the properties of water?

Water is a good solvent, requires significant heat for evaporation, and exhibits cohesion and adhesion.

What are polysaccharides?

Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates made up of long chains of monosaccharide units, such as starch, glycogen, and cellulose.

What are peptides and polypeptides?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids, while polypeptides are longer chains that fold into functional proteins.

What is the function of DNA and RNA?

DNA stores genetic information, while RNA, specifically mRNA, is involved in protein synthesis by carrying the genetic code from DNA to ribosomes.

What is cell theory?

Cell theory states that all living organisms are composed of cells, the cell is the basic unit of life, and all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

What are prokaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic cells are unicellular organisms that lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, such as bacteria.

What are the major organelles in eukaryotic cells?

Major organelles include the nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes.

What is energy metabolism?

Energy metabolism refers to the biochemical processes that convert food into energy through catabolic and anabolic pathways.

What are the first two laws of thermodynamics?

The first law states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, and the second law states that energy tends to disperse or spread out.

What is PCR?

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences, making millions of copies for analysis.

What is a transgenic organism?

A transgenic organism is one that has been genetically modified to contain DNA from another species.

What are the five forces of evolution?

The five forces of evolution are natural selection, mutation, gene flow, genetic drift, and non-random mating.

What is macroevolution?

Macroevolution refers to large-scale evolutionary changes that occur over long periods, leading to the emergence of new species.

What is the biological species concept?

The biological species concept defines a species as a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.

What is conservation biology?

Conservation biology is the scientific study of the preservation, protection, and restoration of biodiversity.

What is an endangered species?

An endangered species is a species that is at risk of extinction due to a decline in population or habitat loss.

What is a keystone species?

A keystone species is one that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance.