Chapter 1: Explain how science is discovered
List the characteristics used to define life
Explain the concept of emergent properties and how it applies to living things
Explain the difference between hypothesis and theory
Outline the scientific method
Use the theory of evolution to explain how science is discovered
Explain the main concepts that unify biology
Biology I
Notes
Chapter 1
Biology unifies much of natural science
The study of biology is a point of convergence for the information and tools from all of the natural sciences.
Biological systems are the most complex chemical systems on Earth, and their many functions are both determined and constrained by the principles of chemistry and physics.
Biological systems do not represent any new forms of matter, and yet they are the most complex organization of matter known.
The complexity of living organisms is made possible by the constant source of energy—the Sun.
Life defies simple definition
In its broadest sense, biology is the study of living things—the science of life.
The seven characteristics shared by living systems:
Cellular organization: All organisms consist of one or more cells. Often too tiny to see, cells carry out the basic activities of living. Each cell is bounded by a membrane that separates it from its surroundings. Ordered complexity: All living things are both complex and highly ordered. Your body is composed of many different kinds of cells, each containing may complex molecular structures.
Sensitivity: All organisms respond to stimuli. Plants grow toward a source of light and the pupils of your eyes dilate when you walk into a dark room.
Growth, development and reproduction: All organisms are capable of growing and reproducing, and they all possess hereditary molecules that are passed to their offspring, ensuring that the offspring are of the same species.
Energy utilization: All organisms take in energy