DNA & Genetics
where is DNA found?
the nucleus
what is evolution?
change in a population over time
what is an ecosystem?
a community of organisms and their environment
what is the functioning of the nucleus
it controls the activities of the cell and contains DNA
what is a hypothesis?
a testable prediction
what is the function of genes?
they code for traits/proteins
what is a fossil?
preserved remains or traces of past life
what is the role of decomposers in the carbon cycle?
they break down dead matter and release carbon into the environment
what is homeostasis?
maintaining stable internal conditions within a cell
what is a controlled variable?
a factor kept constant in an experiment
what is the difference between genotype and phenotype
Genotype = genetic makeup
Phenotype = physical traits
what is natural selection
organisms with favorable traits survive and reproduce more successfully
what process removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?
photosynthesis
what is the main function of the mitochondria?
to produce energy (ATP) for the cell.
why do scientists use a control group?
to compare results and show the effect of the independent variable
a mutation changes a DNA sequence. How can this affect an organism?
it can change a protein, which may affect traits, survival, or have no effect
why do mutations matter in evolution?
they create genetic variation in a population
what happens to carbon during combustion (burning of fossil fuels)?
carbon stored in fuels is released as carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
what are the inputs and outputs photosynthesis.
inputs = carbon dioxide + water + sunlight
outputs = glucose + oxygen
what is a data trend?
a pattern or relationship in results
why is accurate DNA replication important for living organisms?
it ensures that genetic information is passed correctly to new cells, maintaining proper cell function and preventing harmful mutations.
how does environmental change affect natural selection?
it changes which traits are advantageous, shifting survival and reproduction.
explain how carbon cycles between living things and the atmosphere
plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, animals eat plants and release carbon dioxide through respiration, and decomposition and combustion return carbon to the atmosphere
what are the inputs and outputs of cellular respiration.
inputs = oxygen + glucose
outputs = water + carbon dioxide + ATP
why must experiments be repeated?
to ensure results are reliable and not due to change