Biology Exam Review Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards to help review key concepts and terms in biology related to digestion, reproduction, and the urinary system.

Cholesterol

A type of fat that is essential for the formation of cell membranes and certain hormones.

BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate)

The amount of energy expended while at rest in a neutrally temperate environment.

Cellular respiration

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

Glycolysis

The metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate, generating small amounts of ATP and NADH.

Gluconeogenesis

The metabolic process that generates glucose from non-carbohydrate substrates.

Ketosis

A metabolic state in which the body uses fat as its primary source of energy instead of carbohydrates.

Anabolism

The metabolic process that builds larger molecules from smaller ones, requiring energy.

Catabolism

The metabolic process that breaks down larger molecules into smaller ones, releasing energy.

Lipolysis

The breakdown of fats and other lipids by hydrolysis to release fatty acids.

Lipogenesis

The process of converting carbohydrates into fatty acids for energy storage.

Pepsinogen

An inactive precursor of the enzyme pepsin, which helps digest proteins in the stomach.

Amylase

An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch into sugars.

Cholecystokinin

A hormone released by the small intestine that stimulates the digestion of fat and protein.

Secretin

A hormone that stimulates the secretion of pancreatic juice and bile.

Peristalsis

A series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Absorption

The process by which nutrients from digested food are taken up by the cells of the intestine.

Chemical digestion

The process of breaking down food using enzymes and acids.

Mechanical digestion

The physical breakdown of food into smaller pieces.

Stomach mucosal membranes

The lining of the stomach that secretes gastric juices and protects the stomach walls.

Glycogen

A stored form of glucose found in the liver and muscles.

Chyme

The semi-liquid mass of partially digested food that moves from the stomach to the small intestine.

Major role of large intestine bacteria

To ferment unabsorbed material and synthesize certain vitamins.

Permanent teeth

The set of teeth that replace primary teeth, essential for mastication throughout adulthood.

Heat production mechanisms

Processes such as metabolism that produce heat in the body.

Phases of digestion

The processes of ingestion, digestion, absorption, and elimination of food.

Saliva composition

A mixture of water, enzymes, electrolytes, mucus, and antibacterial compounds.

Diabetes mellitus

A group of diseases that affect how the body uses blood sugar (glucose).

Bile

A digestive fluid produced by the liver that aids in the emulsification and digestion of fats.

Pancreatic juice

The digestive fluid produced by the pancreas, containing enzymes and bicarbonate.

Gastric juice

The acidic fluid secreted by the stomach, containing hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes.

Intestinal juice

The fluid secreted by the small intestine, containing enzymes that assist in digestion.

Goblet cells

Cells in the intestinal and respiratory tracts that secrete mucus.

Metabolism

The sum of all chemical processes that occur in the body to maintain life.

HCL (Hydrochloric Acid)

An acid produced in the stomach that aids digestion and kills bacteria.

Energy sources for the body

The highest amount of energy typically comes from carbohydrates and fats.

Nutrients for athletes

Complex carbohydrates and proteins are important for performance and recovery.

Main minerals in the body

Calcium, potassium, and sodium are the key minerals required in moderate amounts.

Stages of labor

The phases of childbirth, including dilation, expulsion, and placental delivery.

Placenta

The organ that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall, facilitating nutrient and waste exchange.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and ova) that carry genetic information.

Genotype

The genetic constitution of an individual.

Phenotype

The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an individual.

Mitosis

The process of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells.

Meiosis

The type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating gametes.

Chromosomal aberration

Any change in the normal structure or number of chromosomes.

Fraternal twins

Twins that develop from two different eggs fertilized by two different sperm.

Identical twins

Twins that develop from one fertilized egg that splits into two embryos.

Urinary system functions

To filter blood, remove waste, and regulate water and electrolyte balance.

Collecting tubule

The part of the nephron that collects urine from the distal convoluted tubule.

ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone)

A hormone that helps regulate water balance in the body.

Renin

An enzyme released by the kidneys that regulates blood pressure.

Macula densa cells

Cells in the kidney that sense sodium concentration and help regulate renal blood flow.

Capsular hydrostatic pressure

The pressure exerted by the fluid in the glomerular capsule.

Proximal convoluted tubule

The segment of the nephron where most reabsorption occurs.

Micturition

The process of expelling urine from the bladder.

Juxtaglomerular apparatus

A structure in the kidney that helps regulate filtration rate and blood pressure.