NPB 110A Lecture 1: Course Introduction and Specifics

This set of flashcards covers key concepts about single-celled and multicellular organisms, their functions, challenges they face, and adaptations developed to facilitate life processes.

Multicellular organisms

Organisms that consist of more than one cell, allowing specialization of functions.

Prokaryotes

Single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus, with examples including bacteria and archaea.

Eukaryotes

Organisms whose cells have a nucleus enclosed within a nuclear envelope, including protozoa, unicellular algae, and unicellular fungi.

Life functions of single cell organisms

All life functions such as catabolism, anabolism, growth, reproduction, and adaptation are performed within a single cell.

Diffusion

The movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, crucial for transport in organisms.

Surface area to volume ratio

A key factor in the effectiveness of diffusion; as the size of an organism increases, the volume increases faster than the surface area.

Internal body disturbances

Changes within the body caused by environmental factors or the body’s own processes, requiring compensatory responses.

Compensatory responses

Physiological changes that help to maintain homeostasis and address disturbances in the internal environment.

Surface area enhancements

Biological adaptations such as folds in membranes that increase surface area to improve transport efficiency.

Vascular systems

Organ systems that transport substances throughout multicellular organisms, overcoming size-related transport challenges.