Eleven Unifying Themes in Biology: Cell Structure, Genetics, Evolution, and Scientific Methods

What are the basic units of structure and function in every organism?

Cells

How is inheritable information stored in organisms?

As nucleotide sequences in DNA molecules.

What does the organization of biology reflect?

Biology is arranged according to levels of organization.

What emerges at each level of biological organization?

Novel properties as a result of interactions among components at previous levels.

How do organisms maintain their internal environments?

Through regulation, maintaining different internal environments from their external environments.

What do organisms exchange with their surroundings?

Materials and energy.

What do all organisms require to perform work?

Energy.

Into how many domains can life be grouped?

Three domains.

What is the basis of Darwin's theory of natural selection?

Populations adapt to their environment through the differing reproductive success of varying individuals.

How are form and function related in biological organization?

Form and function are correlated at all levels of biological organization.

What does the process of science include?

Discovery, testing of hypotheses, and repeatability of observations and experiments.

What is technology in relation to science?

Technology is the goal-oriented application of science.