Unit 1 Biology Glossary

Question 1

Cell

Answer 1

The smallest unit that can perform functions of life

Question 2

Microscopy

Answer 2

The science of using microscopes to view samples or objects

Question 3

Nucleus

Answer 3

The organelle that controls the cells activities

Question 4

Organelle

Answer 4

A specialized structure in a cell

Question 5

Micrograph

Answer 5

A photograph taken with a microscope

Question 6

Cytoplasm

Answer 6

The cytosol and organelles contained by the membrane

Question 7

Chromosome

Answer 7

In a cell nucleus, a thread like structure made mostly of DNA

Question 8

DNA

Answer 8

Material found in the cell nucleus that contains genetic information

Question 9

Gene

Answer 9

A segment of DNA that controls protein production

Question 10

DNA Screening

Answer 10

The process of testing individuals to determine whether they have the gene or genes associated with certain disorders

Question 11

Transgenic Organism

Answer 11

An organism whose genetic information has been altered with the insertion of genes from another species

Question 12

Mutation

Answer 12

A change in the DNA of an organism

Question 13

Mutagen

Answer 13

A substance of factor that can cause a mutation in DNA

Question 14

Cell specialization

Answer 14

The process by which cells develop from similar cells into cells that have specific functions within a multicellular organism

Question 15

Cell differentiation

Answer 15

A stage of development of a living organism during which specialized cells form

Question 16

Transpiration

Answer 16

The evaporation of water from leaves

Question 17

Gall

Answer 17

An abnormal growth of plant tissue created by insects or micro-organisms

Question 18

Tissue

Answer 18

A cluster of similar cells that share the same specialized structure and function

Question 19

Organ

Answer 19

A combination of several types of tissue working together to perform a specific function

Question 20

Meristematic Cell

Answer 20

An unspecialized cell from a plant that gives rise to a specific specialized cell

Question 21

System

Answer 21

In bio, system refers to a group of tissues and organs that perform a specific function

Question 22

Root system

Answer 22

An organ stem in a plant which takes in water and minerals from the soil and transports these substances to the shoot system

Question 23

Shoot system

Answer 23

An organ system in a plant, performs photosynthesis and transports sap

Question 24

Stem cell

Answer 24

An unspecialized cell that can produce various specialized cells that can produce various specialized cells

Question 25

Embryonic stem cell

Answer 25

An unspecialized cell that can become any one of an organism’s body cells