Nucleic Acids
What are the two types of nucleic acids found in living organisms?
DNA and RNA
Identify the major organelles found in a eukaryotic cell.
Examples include the nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus.
Define taxonomy and its importance in biology.
Taxonomy is the science of classifying and naming organisms. It helps organize biodiversity and understand the evolutionary relationships between different species.
What is natural selection and how does it drive evolution?
Natural selection is the process by which organisms with favorable traits survive and reproduce, leading to the gradual change of populations over time.
Why is biodiversity important for ecosystem stability?
Biodiversity ensures resilience in ecosystems, provides essential ecosystem services, and supports the balance of food webs and nutrient cycling.
Describe the structure and function of DNA.
DNA is a double-stranded molecule that contains genetic information. It serves as the blueprint for the synthesis of proteins in the cell.
Compare and contrast prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells have both a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
Describe the levels of classification used in the scientific naming of organisms.
The levels include domain, kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species.
Describe the process of genetic drift and its impact on small populations.
Genetic drift is the random change in allele frequencies in a population. In small populations, genetic drift can have a significant impact and lead to the loss of genetic diversity.
What are some human activities that threaten biodiversity?
Examples include habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, overexploitation of resources, and introduction of invasive species.
How does RNA differ from DNA in terms of structure and function?
RNA is single-stranded, while DNA is double-stranded. RNA is involved in protein synthesis and various other cellular functions.
How did the endosymbiotic theory contribute to our understanding of cell evolution?
The endosymbiotic theory suggests that eukaryotic cells evolved from a symbiotic relationship between different prokaryotic cells, leading to the formation of organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts.
How are phylogenetic trees used to represent the evolutionary relationships between different species?
Phylogenetic trees show the evolutionary history and relationships between species based on shared characteristics and common ancestry.
Explain the concept of speciation and the role of reproductive isolation in the formation of new species.
Speciation is the process by which new species evolve from a common ancestor. Reproductive isolation prevents gene flow between populations, leading to the divergence of traits.
Discuss the role of conservation biology in preserving endangered species.
Conservation biology aims to study and protect biodiversity, including endangered species, through habitat conservation, captive breeding, and sustainable management practices.
Explain the process of DNA replication.
DNA replication is the process by which a DNA molecule is copied to produce two identical DNA molecules. It involves the separation of the DNA strands and the synthesis of new complementary strands.
Explain the importance of cell membranes in maintaining cellular homeostasis.
Cell membranes regulate the passage of substances in and out of the cell, maintain cell shape, and facilitate cell communication, all of which are crucial for cellular balance and function.
What are the main criteria used to classify organisms into different phyla?
Organisms are classified based on their anatomical, morphological, and genetic similarities and differences.
Compare and contrast allopatric and sympatric speciation.
Allopatric speciation occurs when populations are geographically isolated, while sympatric speciation occurs within the same geographic area.
Explain the concept of habitat fragmentation and its implications for biodiversity.
Habitat fragmentation is the division of habitats into smaller, isolated patches. It can lead to loss of biodiversity, genetic isolation, and increased vulnerability to environmental changes.
What role do nucleic acids play in the inheritance of genetic traits?
Nucleic acids contain the genetic information that is passed down from one generation to the next. They serve as the basis for inheritance and the expression of traits.
Discuss the role of mitochondria in cellular respiration.
Mitochondria are responsible for producing ATP through the process of cellular respiration, which provides energy for the cell to carry out its functions.
Explain the concept of convergent evolution and provide an example.
Convergent evolution is when unrelated species develop similar traits due to similar environmental pressures. An example is the streamlined bodies of sharks and dolphins for efficient swimming.
Discuss the evidence for evolution provided by the fossil record.
Fossils show the progression of life forms over time, providing evidence for the evolution of species and the emergence of new traits.
How can sustainable practices help protect biodiversity for future generations?
Sustainable practices promote the responsible use of resources, reduce environmental impact, and support conservation efforts to ensure the long-term health and diversity of ecosystems for future generations.