Science Regents Notes

I. The Blueprint: DNA, RNA, and Protein Synthesis

  • DNA: Contains genetic information and is structured as a double helix.

  • RNA: Single-stranded molecule crucial for protein synthesis; types include mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA.

  • Protein Synthesis Steps:

    1. Transcription: DNA is transcribed to form mRNA in the nucleus.

    2. Translation: Ribosomes synthesize proteins by reading the mRNA sequence.

II. Energy and Matter: Photosynthesis & Respiration

  • Photosynthesis: Process by which plants convert sunlight into chemical energy.

    • Equation: 6CO<em>2+6H</em>2O+extlightenergy<br>ightarrowC<em>6H</em>12O<em>6+6O</em>26CO<em>2 + 6H</em>2O + ext{light energy} <br>ightarrow C<em>6H</em>{12}O<em>6 + 6O</em>2.

    • Occurs in chloroplasts using chlorophyll.

  • Cellular Respiration: Process of converting glucose into usable energy (ATP).

    • Equation: C<em>6H</em>12O<em>6+6O</em>2<br>ightarrow6CO<em>2+6H</em>2O+ATPC<em>6H</em>{12}O<em>6 + 6O</em>2 <br>ightarrow 6CO<em>2 + 6H</em>2O + ATP.

    • Takes place in mitochondria.

III. Ecology: Relationships and Succession

  • Ecosystems: Composed of biotic (living) and abiotic (nonliving) factors.

  • Types of Relationships:

    • Symbiosis: Mutualism, commensalism, parasitism.

    • Food Chains/Webs: Energy flow in ecosystems.

  • Succession: The process of change in species structure over time; includes primary and secondary succession.

IV. Reproduction and Development

  • Sexual Reproduction: Involves two parents and genetic variation.

  • Asexual Reproduction: Single parent, identical offspring.

  • Development: Stages include fertilization, embryo development, and maturation.

V. Evolution and Natural Selection

  • Natural Selection: Mechanism for evolution; organisms with advantageous traits survive and reproduce.

  • Evidence of Evolution: Fossil records, homologous structures, DNA similarities.

VI. The "Other Bits" (Regents Favorites)

  • Cells: Basic unit of life; prokaryotic vs. eukaryotic.

  • Biochemistry: Study of biological molecules (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids).

  • Homeostasis: Maintaining stable internal conditions despite external changes.

  1. Cells, Biochemistry & Homeostasis

  • Cell Theory: All living organisms are made of cells, the cell is the basic unit of life, all cells come from pre-existing cells.

  • Homeostasis: Regulated by feedback systems (negative and positive).

  1. Genetics & Heredity

  • Mendelian Genetics: Inheritance patterns; dominant and recessive traits.

  • Punnett Squares: Tools for predicting genetic outcomes.

  1. Ecology & Human Impact

  • Human Impact: Urbanization, pollution, deforestation, climate change and their effects on ecosystems.

  • Conservation: Strategies to protect biodiversity and ecosystems.