1. Introduction to Evolution (Biology 190) Dr. Ron Kaufmann kaufmann@sandiego.edu rkaufmann@gmail.com Shiley Center 274 (x5904) Office Hrs: Mo 12:30-1:30 Tu 2:30-5:00 Fr 12:30-2:00 www.sandiego.edu/~kaufmann/biol190/biol190.html

2. I. I.Characteristics of Biological Systems A. A.Order/Hierarchy Life is characterized by a high degree of order Biological systems can be organized into a hierarchy Emergent Properties The whole is more than the sum of its parts Arise from interactions between components Ex: Frankenstein, Birth/death rates Reductionism vs. Holism Studying a system by studying its components Advantages? Disadvantages?

3. Fig 1.4

4. I. I.Characteristics of Biological Systems B. B.Response to Environment Stimuli represent changes in environment Stimuli may be physical (light, sound, pressure, temperature) or chemical C. C.Energy Processing Chemical reactions make use of energy from environment or food Autotrophic vs. heterotrophic Provides fuel for growth, maintenance, and reproduction (metabolism)