General Biology Study Guide
1. Cell Biology
- Cell Theory: All living organisms are composed of cells, the cell is the basic unit of life, and cells
arise from pre-existing cells.
- Types of Cells: Prokaryotic (no nucleus, simpler structure) and Eukaryotic (with nucleus, more
complex structure).
- Organelles and Their Functions:
- Nucleus: Contains genetic material (DNA).
- Mitochondria: Powerhouse of the cell, produces energy (ATP).
- Ribosomes: Site of protein synthesis.
- Chloroplasts (in plant cells): Site of photosynthesis.
- Cell Membrane: Controls what enters and exits the cell.
2. Genetics
- DNA Structure: Double helix structure composed of nucleotides (A, T, C, G).
- Genes and Chromosomes: Genes are DNA segments that determine traits; chromosomes are long
DNA molecules.
- Mendelian Genetics:
- Dominant and Recessive Traits: Dominant alleles mask recessive ones.
- Genotype vs. Phenotype: Genotype is genetic makeup; phenotype is physical expression.
- Punnett Squares: Tool to predict genetic crosses.
- DNA Replication and Protein Synthesis:
- Replication: Process of copying DNA.
- Transcription and Translation: DNA -> RNA (transcription) and RNA -> Protein (translation).
3. Evolution and Natural Selection
- Evolution: Change in the characteristics of a species over generations.
- Natural Selection: Process where organisms better adapted to the environment survive and
reproduce.
- Evidence of Evolution:
- Fossils: Show changes in organisms over time.
- Comparative Anatomy: Similarities in body structures (homologous structures).
- Molecular Biology: DNA similarities across species.
4. Ecology
- Ecosystems: Community of organisms and their environment, interacting as a system.
- Food Chains and Webs: Show energy flow from producers (plants) to consumers (herbivores,
carnivores) and decomposers.
- Biotic vs. Abiotic Factors: Biotic are living components, abiotic are non-living (e.g., water,
temperature).
- Cycles in Nature:
- Water Cycle: Evaporation, condensation, precipitation.
- Carbon Cycle: Movement of carbon through the atmosphere, organisms, and Earth.
- Nitrogen Cycle: Nitrogen fixation by bacteria makes nitrogen available to organisms.
5. Basic Anatomy and Physiology
- Organ Systems: Groups of organs that work together to perform functions (e.g., circulatory,
respiratory).
- Key Systems and Functions:
- Circulatory System: Transports blood, oxygen, nutrients.
- Respiratory System: Exchanges gases (oxygen and carbon dioxide).
- Digestive System: Breaks down food, absorbs nutrients.
6. Scientific Method
- Steps: Observation, Question, Hypothesis, Experiment, Analysis, Conclusion.
- Importance of Controls and Variables: Controls remain constant; variables are factors tested.
