Chapter 1- The Scientific Study Of Life Flashcards
Cells
Basic Units of Life
Atom
The smallest chemical unit of a type of pure substance (element)
Molecules
A ground of joined atoms
Organelle
A membrane-bounded structure that has a function within a cell.
Cell
The fundamental unit of life.
Tissue
A collection of specialized cells that function in a coordinated fashion.
Organs
A structure consisting of tissues organized to interact and carry out specific functions.
Organ System
Organs connected physically or chemically that function together.
Organism
A single living individual.
Single-celled organism
Composed of just one cell (bacteria and amoebas).
Multicellular
Composed of many cells (sea sponges, moss, mushrooms).
Population
A group of the same species of organism living in the same place and time.
Community
All populations that occupy the same region.
Ecosystem
The living and non living components of an area.
Biosphere
The global ecosystem; the parts of the planet and its atmosphere where life is possible.
Producers
Extract energy and nutrients from the non living environment.
Consumers
Obtain energy and nutrients by eating other organisms.
Decomposers
Consumers that obtain nutrients from dead organisms and organic wastes.
Homeostasis
The process by which a cell or organism maintains internal equilibrium.
Asexual Reproduction
Only one parent is involved and the offspring are genetically identical to the parent. Successful in unchanging environments.
Sexual Reproduction
Two parents are involved and the offspring are genetically different from the parent. Successful in changing environments.
5 characteristics of life?
1) Organization
2) Energy
3) Internal Constancy
4) Reproduction, growth, and development
5) Evolution
Evolution
Genetic change over time in population (antibiotic resistant bacteria example).
Taxonomy
Technique used to name and classify organisms.