Notes Chapter 1.3 Studying Life

Biology The study of life Bio- “life” -ology “the study of”

Characteristics of all living things: Are made of cells

Characteristics of all living things: Are based on a universal genetic code written in molecules of DNA

Characteristics of all living things: Obtain and use materials and energy Materials are needed for growth, development, and reproduction. All chemical reactions that occur in the body are known collectively as metabolism.

Characteristics of all living things: Grow and develop These occur when cells divide, differentiate, and specialize

Characteristics of all living things: Reproduce Sexual reproduction: cells from 2 parents unite to form the 1st cell of a new organism which is genetically different from both parents Asexual reproduction: a single organism produces offspring identical to itself

Characteristics of all living things: Respond to surroundings Stimuli – signals that organisms respond to

Characteristics of all living things: Maintain internal stability Homeostasis: maintaining a stable internal environment despite changes in the external environment

Characteristics of all living things: Change over time – evolve