Chapter 1: Exploring Life

1.1 - 1.6

Unifying Themes in Biology Evolution~ biology’s core theme;

differential reproductive success (sex!) Emergent Properties~ hierarchy of life The Cell~ all organism’s basic structure Heritable Information~ DNA Structure & Function~ form and function Environmental Interaction~ organisms are

open systems Regulation~ feedback mechanisms Unity & Diversity~ universal genetic code Scientific Inquiry~ observation; testing;

repeatability Science, Technology & Society~ functions

of our world

Hierarchy of OrganizationMoleculeOrganelleCellsTissuesOrganOrganism

Feedback Regulation: NegativeAccumulation of an

end product of a process slows that process

Example: sugar breakdown generates ATP; excess ATP inhibits an enzyme near the beginning of the pathway

Feedback Regulation: Positive

An end product speeds up its production

Example: blood clotting in response to injury

The Process of Science

The Scientific MethodHypothetico-

deductive reasoning “If….then” LogicHypothesis vs.

Theory