Biology Study Guide Flashcards

Flashcards covering key concepts from the biology study guide.

Cell

The basic unit of all living things.

Tissue

A group of similar cells that perform a specific function.

Organ

A structure composed of different types of tissues working together.

Organ System

A group of organs that work together to perform complex functions.

Population

A group of organisms of the same species in a specific area.

Community

All populations of different species living together in a specific area.

Ecosystem

A community interacting with its physical environment.

Biosphere

The global sum of all ecosystems, where life exists.

Prokaryotic Cell

A simple cell that lacks a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryotic Cell

A complex cell that contains a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Cell Membrane

The protective barrier that controls what enters and leaves the cell.

Diffusion

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

Osmosis

The diffusion of water across a semipermeable membrane.

Active Transport

The movement of substances against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Mitosis

A form of cell division that produces two identical daughter cells.

Meiosis

A form of cell division that produces four genetically different gametes.

Gene

A piece of DNA that codes for a specific trait.

Allele

A variant form of a gene.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an individual.

Phenotype

The observable characteristics of an individual.

Hydrolysis

The process of breaking down molecules by the addition of water.

Macromolecules

Large molecules needed in the body, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.

Enzyme

A protein that acts as a catalyst to speed up chemical reactions.

Activation Energy

The minimum energy needed to start a chemical reaction.

Asepsis

The absence of pathogenic microorganisms.

Prion

A misfolded protein that can cause disease.

Viruses

Infectious agents that require a host to reproduce and are made of nucleic acid enclosed in a protein coat.