Biology Concepts and Vocab 1

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Cell

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The basic unit of structure and function that makes up all organisms, or the basic unit of life; all living things (except viruses) are made of cells. Cells carry out all of an organism’s life functions. All cells come from other cells.

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Metabolism

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All the chemical reactions that occur within the cells of an organism; the term used to describe all basic life processes.

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Homeostasis

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The ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal environment even when the external environment changes; a stable internal balanced environment. Failure to maintain homeostasis can result in sickness or death.

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Reproduction

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The process by which organisms produce new organisms of the same type.

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Synthesis

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A life process that involves combining simple substances into more complex substances.

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Respiration (Cellular Respiration)

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The process in which nutrients are broken apart, releasing chemical energy; occurs in the mitochondria. Used by ALL organisms to produce energy (ATP).

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Organic

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Molecules containing both hydrogen and carbon (e.g., carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids).

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Inorganic

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Molecules lacking both carbon and hydrogen.

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Organelle

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A structure within the cell that carries out a specific function.

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Cytoplasm

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The jellylike substance between the cell membrane and nucleus containing specialized structures.