BIOLOGY LAB 1
“Introduction into
Biology”
Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed
Dr. Hassan Sattar
what is biology?
Definition: Biology ( Bio; Alive---Logy; To study ) is
the scientific study of life, examining the structure,
function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution of
living organisms.
levels of biological organization
From Smallest to Largest:
1. Atom: The basic unit of matter (e.g., carbon, oxygen).
2. Molecule: Two or more atoms bonded together (e.g., water, DNA).
3. Cell: Basic unit of life, made up of molecules.
4. Tissue: Groups of similar cells working together (e.g., muscle tissue).
5. Organ: A structure made up of different tissues working together (e.g., heart, lungs).
6. Organ System: A group of organs working together for a common purpose (e.g.,
digestive system).
7. Organism: A living being made up of organ systems (e.g., human, plant).
what is a cell?
Definition: Cells are the smallest units of life that can carry out
all life processes, such as metabolism, energy conversion,
growth, and reproduction.
Cell Theory:
1) All living organisms are made of one or more cells.
2) The cell is the basic unit of life.
3) All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
types of cells
1) Prokaryotic Cells:
Simple structure, no nucleus.
Does not contain organelles.
DNA is located in the cytoplasm.
Example: Bacteria.
2) Eukaryotic Cells:
Complex structure, with a true nucleus.
Contain organelles which are membrane-bounded(mitochondria).
DNA in eukaryotic cells is found inside the nucleus
Examples: Plant cells, animal cells, fungi.
structure of a cell
Key Components of Cells:
Cell Membrane: Phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins. Functions
include regulating what enters and exits the cell, providing structure, and
facilitating communication.
Cytoplasm: Jelly-like substance that fills the cell, where organelles are
suspended and most cellular activities occur.
Nucleus: Contains genetic material (DNA). Controls cell activities and
reproduction.
Organelles: Specialized structures that perform specific functions within
the cell (e.g., mitochondria, ribosomes).
1- the cell membrane
Structure:
Composed of a phospholipid bilayer with hydrophilic heads and
hydrophobic tails.
Functions:
1) Selective Permeability: Controls the movement of substances
into and out of the cell (e.g., nutrients, waste).
2) Communication: Membrane proteins help the cell interact with
its environment and other cells.
3) Protection: Shields the cell from harmful substances.
2- the nucleus
Structure:
Surrounded by a nuclear membrane with pores that regulate material
exchange.
Contains chromatin (DNA) and a nucleolus (where ribosomes are
made).
Functions:
Genetic Control: The nucleus stores genetic information and controls
cellular activities through gene expression.
Cell Division: The nucleus controls the cell cycle and division (mitosis).
RNA Synthesis: The nucleus is responsible for transcribing DNA into
messenger RNA (mRNA), which is used to synthesize proteins.
3- organelles
1) Mitochondria:
Double membrane organelle known as the "powerhouse of the cell."
Produces ATP (energy) through cellular respiration.
2) Ribosomes:
Small organelles that can be free-floating in the cytoplasm or
attached to the rough ER.
Function: Protein synthesis (translation of mRNA into proteins).
3- organelles
3) Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER):
Rough ER: Has ribosomes, synthesizes proteins.
Smooth ER: No ribosomes, synthesizes lipids, detoxifies toxins.
4) Golgi Apparatus:
Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins for secretion or use
within the cell (Protein utilization).
3- organelles
5) Lysosomes:
Contain enzymes that digest waste materials, old organelles,
and foreign invaders (e.g., bacteria).
6) Chloroplasts (in plant cells):
Carry out photosynthesis to convert light energy into chemical
energy (glucose).
4- cytoskeleton
Structure: Composed of three main components:
A. Microfilaments: Thin, flexible fibers that help with cell movement
and shape.
B. Intermediate Filaments: Provide structural support.
C. Microtubules: Hollow tubes that help in intracellular transport and
cell division (spindle formation).
Functions:
1. Maintains cell shape.
2. Provides mechanical support.
3. Facilitates movement (e.g., during cell division or cell mobility).
4- cytoskeleton
thank you
ANY QUESTION?
