Biology A Semester 1 Final Exam Review

Vocabulary flashcards to help review key concepts from the Biology A Semester 1 final exam notes.

Biological Levels of Organization

The hierarchical structure in biology comprising cells, tissues, organs, organ systems, and organisms.

Homeostasis

The process by which biological systems maintain stability while adjusting to conditions that are optimal for survival.

Diffusion

The passive movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.

Osmosis

The diffusion of water through a selectively permeable membrane.

Feedback loops

Processes in which the output of a system amplifies (positive feedback) or dampens (negative feedback) the system's effects.

Biomolecules

Organic molecules that are essential to life, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.

Monomers

Basic building blocks of biomolecules that can join together to form polymers.

Dehydration Synthesis

A chemical reaction where two molecules are bonded together with the removal of water.

Hydrolysis

A chemical process that splits a molecule by adding water.

Enzymes

Biological catalysts that accelerate chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water, generating oxygen as a byproduct.

Cellular Respiration

The metabolic process in which cells convert nutrients into energy and produce waste products.

Aerobic Respiration

A form of respiration that requires oxygen to produce energy.

Anaerobic Respiration

A type of respiration that occurs without oxygen, often resulting in the production of lactic acid or ethanol.

Trophic Pyramids

A graphical representation showing the distribution of biomass, numbers, or energy among trophic levels in an ecosystem.

Biomagnification

The increasing concentration of toxic substances within each successive link in the food chain.

Carrying Capacity

The maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can sustainably support.

Invasive Species

Non-native species that, when introduced to a new habitat, can harm native species and disrupt the ecological balance.