Characteristics of Life All living organisms exhibit the same eight characteristics Mnemonic device: CORE GARD

Characteristics of Life: C- Cells, living building blocks of which all organisms are made. O- Organization, highly organized at the molecular and cellular levels. Specific cells = specific function. R- Reproduction, all have ability to reproduce which is essential for the continuation of the organism. E- Energy Use, need energy to maintain organization, to grow and reproduce. Metabolism- process of using energy through chemical reactions.

Characteristics of Life (cont.): G- Growth, result of cell division creates a larger organism and/or growth from immature to mature (life cycle). A- Adaptation, evolve or change over time through random changes in the genetic code (evolution). R- Response to environment, internal and external environments are always changing. Homeostasis: maintaining a stable internal environment.

Characteristics of Life D- DNA-Universal Genetic Code All organisms store the complex information they need to live, grow and reproduce in a genetic code written in a molecule called DNA

Microscope Handling: Center on table Carry with both hands Center on table Remove dust cover and unwind electric cord. Always store microscope in the low power position.

Microscope Use: 1. Always start with the low power objective. 2. Place slide over hole in stage. 3. Looking at the stage, slowly turn the course adjustment knob so the objective almost touches the slide. 4. Look through the eyepiece, turn the course adjustment slightly to focus image. Improve focus with fine adjustment knob. 5. Center image in field of view, switch to medium power objective. Focus with fine adjustment. 6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 to switch to high power.

Calculating Magnification (Objective)(Eyepiece) = ______x Example: Objective is 60 and eyepiece is 10 (numbers found etched on microscope parts) 60 x 10 = 600x