1. Chpt 1 The Science of Life

2. The Study of Life
The first life form probably arose on Earth more than 3.5 billion years ago.
This organism was probably a single cell and over time changed.
Biology studies these organisms and common themes occur throughout:
Cell structure and function
Stability and homeostasis
Reproduction and inheritance
Evolution
Interdependence of organisms
Matter, energy and organization

3. Themes of Biology 1. Cell Structure and Function
Cells = smallest unit of life
Unicellular vs. Multicellular
Cells are small but highly organized
Cells in a multicellular organisms have undergone differentiation.

4. Themes of Biology 2. Stability and Homeostasis
All living things want to have and maintain very stable internal conditions.

5. Themes of Biology
3. Reproduction and Inheritance All organisms produce new organisms that are like themselves. This is due to DNA. This information is passed through either sexual or asexual reproduction.

6. Themes of Biology 4. Evolution Populations change over time.
Scientists suggest natural selection drives evolution.
Ability to attain resources can affect individuals within a species. “descent with modification”

7. Themes of Biology 5. Interdependence of Organisms
To truly understand biology interactions must be studied.
This is called ecology.

8. Themes of Biology 6. Matter, Energy and Organization
Living things must be maintained with a constant supply of energy.
Almost all energy for life comes from the sun. (photosynthesis)
Organisms can obtain energy in a couple of different ways:
Autotrophs
heterotrophs

9. Biology is the study of life!
What are the characteristics of something that is “alive”?
Does it have to move?
Does it have to have lungs?
Does it have to have sunlight?
Does it have to have a mouth?
Is this alive?

10. Slime molds Are actually alive!
Use spores to reproduce and decompose tiny microorganisms

11. Bornean flat-headed frog – no lungs; breathes through skin
Lichen – doesn’t move
No sunlight
No mouth

12. Characteristics of Life
Cells
Organization
Energy Use
Homeostasis
Growth
Reproduction

13. 1-3 Scientific Method

14. 1-4 Microscopes One of the most widely used tools in biology
Produces an enlarged image of an object
Types:
Compound
Stereo
Electron (TEM and SEM)

16. Measurement Base Units
Describe length, mass, time and other quantities
Derived units can be used to measure surface area or velocity and many other things
Dimensional Analysis