1 Principles of Biological Organization Free Online FlashCards

What is emergence in biology?

Emergence occurs when interactions among parts produce structures or functions not present in the parts alone, such as coordinated heart cells producing a pumping action.

What is the smallest unit capable of life processes?

Cells are the smallest units capable of carrying out the processes of life.

How are tissues, organs, and organ systems related?

Similar cells working together form a tissue; multiple tissues form an organ; and groups of organs coordinating related functions form an organ system.

What defines a population?

A population is made up of members of the same species living in the same area.

Which shared traits characterize life?

Life is characterized by a collection of traits, including cellular organization, energy use, regulation, growth and development, response, reproduction, and evolution across generations.

At what level does evolution occur?

Evolution is a change in inherited characteristics across generations of a population; an individual does not evolve during its lifetime.

What does homeostasis maintain?

Homeostasis regulates internal conditions within ranges that support life, even as the external environment changes.

How does negative feedback help maintain homeostasis?

Negative feedback produces a response that reduces a change. For example, sweating helps release heat when body temperature rises.

How do a hypothesis and a prediction differ?

A hypothesis is a proposed, testable explanation. A prediction states what should be observed if the hypothesis is supported.

What is an ecological community?

A community consists of populations of different species living and interacting in an area.

What does an ecosystem include?

An ecosystem includes a community and the nonliving parts of its environment, such as water, soil, and air.

What is the biosphere?

The biosphere is all the regions of Earth where life exists.