Biology Terminology

Cell Biology

Cell Membrane - The semi-permeable membrane surrounding the cell.

Nucleus - The cell organelle that houses genetic material, also known as DNA.

Mitochondria - The powerhouse of the cell, involved in energy production.

Ribosomes - Structures involved in protein synthesis.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) - Network of membranes involved in protein and lipid synthesis; rough ER has ribosomes, smooth ER does not.

Golgi Apparatus - Processes and packages proteins and lipids.

Genetics

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) - The molecule that carries genetic information.

RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) - Involved in protein synthesis and gene expression.

Gene - A segment of DNA that codes for a protein.

Chromosome - Structures made of DNA and proteins that contain genetic information.

Mutation - A change in the DNA sequence.

Genotype - The genetic constitution of an individual.

Phenotype - The physical expression of the genotype.

hysiology

Homeostasis - Ability or tendency of the body or a cell to seek and maintain a condition of equilibrium

Metabolism - The sum of all chemical reactions within an organism.

Enzyme - Proteins that act as biological catalysts.

Hormones - Chemical messengers produced by glands that regulate various physiological processes.

Ecology

Ecosystem - A community of living organisms interacting with their environment.

Biotic Factors - Living components of an ecosystem, like plants and animals.

Abiotic Factors - Non-living components of an ecosystem, such as temperature and water.

Food Chain - A series of organisms each dependent on the next as a source of food.

Niche - The role or function of an organism or species within an ecosystem.

Evolution

Natural Selection - The process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and reproduce.

Speciation - The formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.

Adaptation - Traits that improve an organism’s ability to survive and reproduce.

Plant Biology

Photosynthesis - The process by which green plants use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water.

Chlorophyll - The green pigment in plants responsible for absorbing light.

Stomata - Pores on the leaf surface that allow gas exchange.

Xylem - Vascular tissue responsible for water transport in plants.

Phloem - Vascular tissue responsible for nutrient transport in plants.

Human Anatomy

Cardiovascular System - Includes the heart and blood vessels.

Respiratory System - Includes the lungs and airways.

Digestive System - Includes organs like the stomach and intestines involved in digestion.

Nervous System - Includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.

Microbiology

Bacteria - Single-celled organisms that can be beneficial or pathogenic.

Virus - A microscopic infectious agent that replicates only inside living cells.

Fungi - A kingdom of organisms that includes yeasts, molds, and mushrooms.