Introduction_to_Biology

Biology

The study of living things; also known as the science of life.

Cell Theory

The theory that all living organisms are composed of cells, and that all cells arise from previously existing cells.

Properties of Life

Key characteristics shared by all living things, including cellular organization, order, sensitivity, growth, reproduction, energy utilization, evolutionary adaptation, and homeostasis.

Hierarchy of Life

The organization of life from the smallest unit (atom) to the largest (ecosystem) in a structured manner.

Mitosis

A process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell.

Meiosis

A specialized form of cell division that produces four non-identical daughter cells (gametes), each with half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell.

Natural Selection

The process by which organisms that are better adapted to their environment tend to survive and reproduce more than those less adapted.

Gene

A segment of DNA that encodes for a specific trait or protein.

Evolution

The process through which species change over time through adaptations and natural selection.

Homeostasis

The process by which living organisms maintain stable internal conditions despite changes in the external environment.

Ecosystem

A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

Emergent Properties

New characteristics that arise from the interaction and organization of components at higher levels of biological organization.

Antigen

Any substance that triggers an immune response, typically found on the surface of pathogens.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by B cells that specifically target and neutralize foreign antigens.

Phagocytes

Immune cells that engulf and digest foreign particles and pathogens.

Cytokines

Signaling molecules that mediate and regulate immune responses.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to genetic variation and potentially to evolution.

Autosome

Any chromosome that is not a sex chromosome; humans have 22 pairs of autosomes.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells that lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles; primarily bacteria.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells that contain a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, including animal and plant cells.

Lymphocytes

A type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system, includes B cells and T cells.

What is microbiology?

Microbiology is the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, and their effects on humans, animals, plants, and the environment.

Biology

The study of living things; also known as the science of life.