Bio 100 - Chapter 1. Scientific Study of Life Latest Version 100% Pass

Bio 100 - Chapter 1. Scientific Study of Life Latest Version 100% Pass Biology The scientific study of life and living organisms Emergent properties New and complex functions that arise when components within an organism interact, resulting from physical and chemical interactions among a system's parts DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) The genetic code used by cells to produce proteins, enabling cell specialization and functioning within tissues, organs, and organ systems Atoms Basic particles in all living organisms that bond together to form molecules Molecules Groups of atoms bonded together in living organisms, forming organelles Organelles Membrane-bound structures within cells that perform specific functions Cell The fundamental unit of life, organized into specialized tissues Tissue A collection of specialized cells working together in a coordinated manner, forming organs Organ Structures made of tissues organized to interact and perform specific functions, integrated into an organ system Organ system Groups of organs connected physically or chemically, working together to form an organism Organism A single living entity composed of one or more cells Population A group of the same species living in the same place and time, forming part of a community Community All populations occupying the same region within an ecosystem Ecosystem Includes both the living (biotic) and nonliving (abiotic) components of an area within the biosphere Biosphere The global ecosystem; All of the parts of the planet and its atmosphere where life is possible. Producers Also called autotrophs, make their own food by extracting energy and nutrients from nonliving sources. Consumers Also called heterotrophs (hetero- other), obtain energy and nutrients by eating other organisms, living or dead. Decomposers Heterotrophs that obtain energy and nutrients from wastes or dead organisms. Homeostasis The process by which a cell or organism maintains this state of internal constancy, or equilibrium. Asexual reproduction Genetic information that comes from only one parent, and all offspring are virtually identical. Sexual reproduction Genetic material from two parent individuals unites to form an offspring, which as a new combination of inherited traits.