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.
Histology
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.