OVS Grade 11 Biology – Full Final Exam Review

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and vocabulary from the Grade 11 Biology curriculum, focusing on essential terms, definitions, and processes pertinent to the study of biology.

Biology

The study of living organisms and their interactions with the environment.

Characteristics of Living Things

Key features shared by all living things, including being made of cells, reproducing, growing, responding to stimuli, using energy, and maintaining homeostasis.

Taxonomy

The science of classifying living organisms into hierarchical categories.

Prokaryotes vs. Eukaryotes

Prokaryotes lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotes have them.

Viruses

Microscopic entities that cannot reproduce on their own and rely on host cells for replication.

Binomial Nomenclature

A system of naming species using a two-part Latin name.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid; a double helix molecule that carries genetic instructions for life.

Mitosis vs. Meiosis

Mitosis is for growth and repair (producing 2 identical cells), whereas meiosis is for forming gametes (producing 4 genetically different cells).

Alleles

Different forms of a gene that control traits.

Sex-Linked Traits

Traits associated with genes located on sex chromosomes.

Mutations

Changes in DNA sequence or chromosome structure that can affect genetic information.

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, creating glucose and releasing oxygen.

Xylem and Phloem

Xylem transports water upward, while phloem carries sugars downward in plants.

Tropisms

Growth responses of plants to environmental stimuli such as light (phototropism) and gravity (gravitropism).

Evolution

The process by which populations of organisms change over generations through genetic variation and natural selection.

Natural Selection

The process by which individuals with traits better suited to their environment survive and reproduce more successfully.

Homologous Structures

Anatomical features that share a common origin but serve different functions.

Speciation

The formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.

Adaptive Radiation

A process in which one species evolves into many different forms to adapt to varying environments.