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Photosynthesis

Process by which green plants use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water; produces oxygen.

Respiration

Chemical process in cells that breaks down glucose to release energy.

Enzymes

Proteins that speed up biochemical reactions by lowering activation energy.

Diffusion

Movement of particles from an area of high concentration to low concentration.

Osmosis

Diffusion of water molecules through a partially permeable membrane.

Active transport

Movement of substances against a concentration gradient using energy.

Cell division (mitosis)

Process by which a cell divides to produce two identical daughter cells.

Genetics

Study of heredity and variation of inherited characteristics.

DNA

Molecule that carries genetic information.

Mutation

Change in the DNA sequence.

Evolution

Change in inherited characteristics over time.

Ecology

Study of interactions between organisms and their environment.

Food chain

Sequence showing feeding relationships and energy flow.

Biotic factors

Living components of an ecosystem.

Abiotic factors

Non-living components of an ecosystem.

Pollution

Introduction of harmful substances into the environment.

Biodiversity

Variety of living organisms in an ecosystem.