Download Biology: Understanding Life

Biology: Understanding Life
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Biology = The Study of Life
Subdisciplines of Biology
• Molecular – chemical level
• Cell – individual cell level
• Organismal – individual level
• Population – species level
• Many other fields of study
What is Life?
• Living Organisms share
common characters
Characteristics of Life
• Cellular composition and hierarchical organization
• Interaction with one another and the environment
• Emergent properties
(organization yields characteristics)
• DNA directs structure & function, is heritable
• Transformation of energy & maintenance of stability
• Form that fits function
• Diversity in type with pattern unity among organisms
• Evolution of species
from Table 1.1
Life is Embodied by the idea that the whole is
equal to more than the sum of its parts
All Living Things are Composed of Cells
• Cell
– Mass of protoplasm
– Bound by membrane
– Smallest living unit
Organization of Life
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Cell
Tissue
Organ
Organ System
Organism
Population
Community
Ecosystem
biosphere
Smallest Level
Largest Level
Biological Information
• DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)
– Recipe for structure & function
– Material of heredity
Organisms Use & Transform Energy
• Energy drives activities
– Movement
– Cell repair
– Reproduction
– Growth
– Homeostasis
Source of Energy
• Photosynthesis
– Capturing energy from the sun
– Organisms that can do this are producers
• Feeding on Producers
– Capturing energy from another organism
– Organisms that can do this are consumers
• Break down molecules of dead organisms
– Recycle nutrients
– Organisms that do this are decomposers
Structures Fit Functions
• Form infers function
• Example: feathers
– Fluffy = insulator
– Flight feathers
– Waterproof feathers
– Camouflage feathers
Different form,
different function