Introduction to Life Science for Engineers

A set of flashcards based on the key concepts from the lecture on Life Science for Engineers, emphasizing important definitions, classifications and functions of biological systems.

What is Biology defined as in the context of life science?

Science of living things.

Why should mechanical engineers study life science?

To learn flexible solutions from nature that engineers might overlook.

What are the characteristics of organisms listed in the lecture?

Order/Organization, Sensitivity, Growth, Development, Reproduction, Regulation, Homeostasis.

What classification system did Whittaker propose in 1969?

5 kingdoms.

What are the two main types of bacteria classified by Woese et al.?

Eubacteria and Archaebacteria.

What is the distinguishing feature of Archaebacteria compared to Eubacteria?

Amino acid that initiates protein synthesis; Archaebacteria uses Methionine while Eubacteria uses Formyl-methionine.

What are Protista, and why is it referred to as the 'dustbin' kingdom?

Eukaryotic organisms that do not fit neatly into the categories of animals or plants.

What type of cell walls do fungi possess?

Chitin.

What are the central functions of plants as classified in the lecture?

Eukaryotic, Multicellular, Autotrophic, containing chloroplasts.

What is a defining characteristic of the Animalia kingdom?

Eukaryotic, Multicellular, Heterotrophic, generally motile.

What does homeostasis refer to in biological systems?

The ability to maintain relatively stable internal conditions despite changes in the external environment.

What are two types of feedback mechanisms in homeostasis?

Negative feedback and Positive feedback.

What does negative feedback do in a control system?

Reduces the intensity of the stimulus or shuts off the original effect.

Describe the primary function of the Nervous System according to the lecture.

To control and regulate body functions.

Which areas of the brain are responsible for processing sensory impulses?

Cerebral hemispheres and the Thalamus.

What is a chemical synapse?

A type of synapse that allows the release and reception of neurotransmitters.

How does the Golgi apparatus function in the cell?

Modifies, concentrates, and packages proteins and lipids for export.

What types of cells do neurons compose in nervous tissues?

Neurons and supporting cells.

What characterizes glial cells in the nervous system?

They provide support, insulation, and protection for neurons.

What is the primary component of the cytoskeleton?

Microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules.

What do the terms 'afferent' and 'efferent' refer to in the context of the nervous system?

Afferent refers to sensory input to the CNS, while efferent refers to motor output from the CNS.