Chpt 1 S 1.3 -Characteristics of living organisms Flashcards
Biology is the study of life
(Bio-life) (ology-the study of)
Characteristic #1
Living things are made up of cells
Some organisms are unicellular - amoeba
- Requires a microscope to see
- most do not contain cell nuclei
- lacks organelles
- dependent upon itself for life
Some organisms are multicellular-plants etc
- the aggregation of cells
- much more specialized
- membrane cells + nuclei
- if 1 dies it’s not dependent on it for life
Characteristic #2
Based on a universal genetic code
All organisms store the complex information they need to live, grow, and reproduce in a genetic code written in a molecule called:
DNA. (Copied from parent to offspring)
Characteristic #3
Obtain and use material and energy
Metabolism
The combination of chemical reactions where an organism builds up or breaks down materials
Photosynthesis
The use of light energy to make chemical energy in plants
Characteristic #4
Reproduce
Budding
An offspring grows out of the body of the parent
Regeneration
If a piece of a parent is detachet, it can grow and develope into a completely new individual
Characteristic #5
Grow and develope
Differentiate
Look different from one another and preform different functions
Characteristic #6
Maintain a stable environment
Homeostasis
Organisms need to keep their internal environment relatively stable even when external conditions change dramatically
