The Science of Biology Biology: the scientific study of living things From small processes to big interactions Organism: any living thing What are the characteristics of all living things?

Made of Cells Cell: basic component of all living things Living things are highly organized Can be single- or multi-celled

Universal Genetic Code All use DNA for genetic code

Require Energy Living things obtain and process energy, usually in the form of ATP Energy is required for activities such as movement

Growth and Development Living things add mass and change shape

Reproduction All living things can produce a new generation of the same organism Can be sexual or asexual

Response to Environment Living things respond to stimuli in the environment

Homeostasis Living things maintain an internal state of balance in a constantly changing environment

Adaptation Populations of things become adapted to their environment Evolution: the process by which populations become adapted