1. Biology: Understanding Life

2. Galactic Real Estate In The News
Insert video clip

3. Biology = The Study of Life

4. Subdisciplines of Biology
Molecular – chemical level
Cell – individual cell level
Organismal – individual level
Population – species level
Many other fields of study

5. What is Life?
Living Organisms share common characters

6. Characteristics of Life
Cellular composition and hierarchical organization
Interaction with one another and the environment
Emergent properties
(organization yields characteristics)
DNA directs structure & function, is heritable
Transformation of energy & maintenance of stability
Form that fits function
Diversity in type with pattern unity among organisms
Evolution of species
from Table 1.1

7. Life is Embodied by the idea that the whole is equal to more than the sum of its parts

8. All Living Things are Composed of Cells
Mass of protoplasm
Bound by membrane
Smallest living unit

9. Organization of Life Cell Tissue Organ Organ System Organism
Population
Community
Ecosystem
biosphere
Smallest Level
Largest Level

11. Biological Information
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)
Recipe for structure & function
Material of heredity

12. Organisms Use & Transform Energy
Energy drives activities
Movement
Cell repair
Reproduction
Growth
Homeostasis

13. Source of Energy Photosynthesis Feeding on Producers
Capturing energy from the sun
Organisms that can do this are producers
Feeding on Producers
Capturing energy from another organism
Organisms that can do this are consumers
Break down molecules of dead organisms
Recycle nutrients
Organisms that do this are decomposers

15. Structures Fit Functions
Form infers function
Example: feathers
Fluffy = insulator
Flight feathers
Waterproof feathers
Camouflage feathers

16. Different form,
different function