Biology Class Summary Notes

The Basics:

● The Cell: The fundamental unit of life, containing structures like the nucleus,

mitochondria, and ribosomes, each with specific functions.

● Biomolecules: Organic molecules essential for life, including carbohydrates,

proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA).

● The Scientific Method: A process for gathering and analyzing evidence to

answer scientific questions.

Building Blocks of Life:

● Atoms and Molecules: Atoms combine to form molecules, with specific

arrangements determining their properties.

● Macromolecules: Large, complex molecules like carbohydrates, proteins,

and nucleic acids, essential for cell structure and function.

Cellular Processes:

● Cell Structure and Function: Different organelles within a cell carry out

specialized functions.

● Cell Membrane: Controls what enters and leaves the cell.

● Cellular Respiration: Breaks down glucose to release energy for the cell.

● Photosynthesis: Plants capture sunlight to produce glucose for food.

Genetics and Inheritance:

● DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, the genetic material that stores instructions for

building and maintaining an organism.

● Genes: Units of heredity within DNA that code for specific traits.

● Chromosomes: Thread-like structures containing DNA.

● Mitosis: Cell division that produces two genetically identical daughter cells.
 ● Meiosis: Cell division that produces four genetically different gametes (sex

cells).

Evolution:

● The Theory of Evolution: Explains how populations change over time

through natural selection.

Living Things and the Environment:

● Ecology: The study of how organisms interact with each other and their

environment.

● Ecosystems: Communities of living organisms interacting with their nonliving

environment.

● Homeostasis: The ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal

environment.

This is just a basic overview. There's so much more to explore in biology!