Prerequisite Terms + Dimensional Analysis Quiz Flashcards
Kinetic Energy
The energy an object possesses due to its motion (K.E. = 1/2m*v2)
Potential Energy
The energy stored in an object due to its position (U=mgh).
Radioactive Decay
The process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.
Half-life
The time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay
Radiation
the emission of energy as electromagnetic waves or as moving subatomic particles
1st Law of Thermodynamics (Law of Conservation of Matter & Energy)
The total mass should be a constant inside a closed system that does not allow matter or energy to escape. Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.
Entropy
A measure of the disorder or randomness in a system
2nd Law of Thermodynamics
Energy transfers lead to increased entropy (disorder) in the system, and energy quality decreases over time
Organism
Any living individual entity that can act or function independently. Carries on the activities of life by means of organs which have separate functions but are dependent on each other
Species
A group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring
Population
A group of individuals of the same species living in a specific area
Community
Different populations of organisms living together in a specific area
Ecosystem
A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
Producers/Autotrophs
Organisms that produce their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis
Consumers/Heterotrophs
Organisms that obtain energy by consuming other organisms
Decomposers
Organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms, returning nutrients to the ecosystem
Photosynthesis
The process by which plants convert carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) into glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2) using sunlight.
CO2 + H2O -> C6H12O6 + O2
Cellular Respiration
The process by which cells convert glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2) into carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O), and energy (ATP)
C6H12O6 + O2 -> CO2 + H2O
Aerobic Respiration
Respiration that requires oxygen, producing more energy (ATP) than anaerobic respiration.
Anaerobic Respiration
Respiration that does not require oxygen, producing less energy (ATP) and often leading to byproducts like lactic acid or ethanol.
CO2 (carbon dioxide)
A colorless, odorless gas produced by burning carbon and organic compounds and by respiration.
CO (carbon monoxide)
A colorless, odorless, and toxic gas produced by incomplete combustion of carbon-containing materials.
CH4 (methane)
A colorless, odorless, flammable gas that is the main constituent of natural gas and a potent greenhouse gas.