The Characteristics of Life and Levels of Biological Organization

Flashcards covering key concepts from 'Inquiry Into Life' Chapter 1, including the characteristics of life, levels of biological organization, and scientific species names.

What are the six basic characteristics of life?

1. Life Is Organized.
2. Life Responds to Its Environment.
3. Life Requires Materials and Energy.
4. Life Has the Capacity to Adapt.
5. Life Has the Ability to Reproduce and Develop.
6. Life Maintains an Internal Environment (Homeostasis).

What term describes a living organism's ability to maintain a stable internal environment?

Homeostasis

What is the smallest unit of an element, composed of electrons, protons, and neutrons?

Atom

What is a molecule in the levels of biological organization?

The union of two or more atoms of the same or different elements

What level of biological organization is defined as the structural and functional unit of all living organisms?

Cell

How is a tissue defined in biological organization?

A group of cells with a common structure and function

What level of biological organization is composed of tissues functioning together for a specific task?

Organ

What is an organ system?

A system composed of several organs working together

How is an organism defined in the levels of biological organization?

An individual; complex individuals contain organ systems

What is a species?

A group of similar, interbreeding organisms

How is a population defined?

Organisms of the same species in a particular area

What is a community in ecological organization?

Interacting populations in a particular area

What components make up an ecosystem?

A community plus the physical environment

What is the biosphere?

Regions of the Earth's crust, waters, and atmosphere inhabited by living organisms

What is the scientific name for the jaguar provided in the notes?

Panthera onca

What is the scientific name for the giant sequoia?

Sequoiadendron giganteum

What is the scientific name for the mushroom example shown in the text?

Amanita muscaria

What is the scientific name for humans listed in the notes?

Homo sapiens