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.