is the study of inanimate natural objects and the laws that governthem. It includes physics, chemistry, and astronomy.

is the study of the Earth and the physical components that make it up: the constitution of the atmosphere, the seas, the land, and how those things are tied together. It includes geology, oceanography, meteorology and paleontology.

is the study of life and living things. Living things are also called organisms. Life science is often referred to as biology.

three main branches of science:

the study of life that lived in prehistoric and geologic periods, has some overlap with the life sciences.

is the study of the structure, evolution and dynamics of the Earth and its natural mineral and energy resources.

is the study of the atmosphere, atmospheric phenomena, and atmospheric effects on our weather.

applies chemistry, geology, meteorology, biology, and other branches of science to the study of the ocean. It is a scientific discipline concerned with all aspects of the world’s oceans and seas, including their physical and chemical properties, their origin and geologic framework, and the life forms that inhabit the marine environment.

the breakdown of molecules to obtain energy

the synthesis of all compounds needed by the cells.

believes that God created the Earth, all life, and the Universe all at once, very quickly, and not long ago

“Speculations about the origins of life on Earth have existed since the dawn of civilization.

Also known as the biogeochemical theory, this is accepted by most scientists as it is the theory that can be thoroughly tested for confirmation.

are organisms made up of cells that lack a cell nucleus or any membrane-encased organelles.

are organisms made up of cells that possess a membrane- bound nucleus that holds genetic material as well as membrane-bound organelles.

A typical prokaryotic cell might contain

A typical eukaryotic cell is surrounded by a __________ and contains many different structures and organelles with a variety of functions.

are the most abundant and diverse group of organisms on Earth. They are unicellular prokaryotes, which means they lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

are a group of microorganisms that share some characteristics with bacteria but have distinct genetic and biochemical features. They are also unicellular prokaryotes and can be found in extreme environments like hot springs, salt pans, and deep-sea hydrothermal vents.

is the domain that includes all eukaryotic organisms, which are characterized by having a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. This domain is the most familiar to us, as it includes plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

are specialized structures within a cell that perform specific functions. Examples include the nucleus (containing genetic material), mitochondria (energy production), and endoplasmic reticulum (protein synthesis).

the membrane surrounding and protecting the cell

is the gel-like substance that fills the cell and surrounds organelles. It plays a crucial role in supporting cellular structures and facilitating various biochemical reactions.

are whip-like appendages on the surface of certain cells, often used for locomotion. They propel the cell through movements resembling a rotating motion, providing mobility to organisms such as bacteria and sperm cells.

is a region within a prokaryotic cell (lacking a true nucleus) where the genetic material, typically a circular DNA molecule, is located. It is not enclosed by a membrane, unlike the nucleus in eukaryotic cells.

is a small, circular DNA molecule found in some bacteria and archaea. It is separate from the chromosomal DNA and can replicate independently. often carry genes that confer specific advantages to the organism, such as antibiotic resistance or the ability to metabolize certain substances. Researchers also use plasmids in genetic engineering and biotechnology.

are hair-like structures on the surface of some bacteria. They serve various functions, including adherence to surfaces or other cells, facilitating the exchange of genetic material through a process called conjugation, and aiding in bacterial movement.

is a membrane-bound organelle found in eukaryotic cells. It contains the cell's genetic material, including DNA, and serves as the control center for cellular activities. is responsible for regulating gene expression and coordinating cell functions.

are thread-like structures made of DNA and proteins. They carry genetic information and are located in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. become visible during cell division and contain genes, which are segments of DNA that encode instructions for building and maintaining organisms.

are biological macromolecules that play a fundamental role in the storage and transmission of genetic information. There are two main types: DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid). DNA carries the genetic instructions for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known living organisms. RNA is involved in protein synthesis and various cellular processes.

are double-membraned organelles found in the cells of eukaryotic organisms. They are often referred to as the "powerhouses of the cell" because their primary function is to generate energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through cellular respiration. It contain their own genetic material and are believed to have originated from a symbiotic relationship between ancestral eukaryotic cells and bacteria.

are a group of single-celled microorganisms that constitute one of the three domains of life, the other two being Bacteria and Eukaryota. often thrive in extreme environments like hot springs, salt flats, and deep-sea hydrothermal vents. While they share some similarities with bacteria, they also exhibit unique biochemical and genetic features that set them apart as a distinct domain of life.

is one of the three domains of life, alongside Bacteria and Archaea. It includes all eukaryotic organisms, which are characterized by cells with a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. This domain encompasses a vast array of life forms, including plants, animals, fungi, and protists. represents the most complex and diverse group of organisms on Earth.

is a polymer that makes up the cell walls of bacteria. It consists of sugar chains cross-linked by short peptide bridges. The structure provides strength to the bacterial cell wall and helps maintain cell shape. Notably, is a feature of bacterial cell walls and is absent in the cell walls of archaea and eukaryotes.

are substances that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. They can be naturally produced by microorganisms like bacteria and fungi or synthetically manufactured. are commonly used to treat bacterial infections in humans and animals.

are a group of bacteria that lack a cell wall, making them distinct from other bacteria. Due to the absence of a cell wall, they have a flexible cell membrane. are among the smallest free-living organisms and can cause infections in humans and animals. They are known for their ability to parasitize a variety of host cells and are responsible for conditions such as pneumonia and urinary tract infections.

also known as blue-green algae, are a group of photosynthetic bacteria that obtain their energy through photosynthesis. They are crucial in oxygen production and have played a significant role in shaping Earth's atmosphere, are characterized by their blue-green pigments and can be found in various environments, including freshwater, oceans, and terrestrial habitats.

Five Kingdoms of life

This group includes prokaryotic microorganisms, such as bacteria.

This kingdom comprises mostly unicellular eukaryotic organisms, including various types of algae and protozoa.

This kingdom consists of fungi, which are eukaryotic organisms that obtain nutrients through absorption.

This kingdom includes multicellular, photosynthetic organisms, such as plants.

This kingdom consists of multicellular, heterotrophic organisms, which are animals.

is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose or other carbohydrates. It takes place in chloroplasts, where pigments like chlorophyll absorb light energy.

is the branch of biology that classifies all living things.

Taxonomic Hierarhy

The highest taxonomic rank, representing the broadest category of life. The three domains are Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.

The second-highest rank, grouping organisms into broad categories based on major characteristics.

A taxonomic unit grouping related organisms based on fundamental body plans and structural features.

Organisms within a phylum are further classified into classes based on additional shared characteristics.

Within a class, organisms are grouped into orders based on similarities in anatomy, physiology, and other traits.

A taxonomic unit consisting of related genera. Families share common characteristics and are more specific than orders.

A group of species that are closely related. Genera share similarities but are more distinct than species.

The most specific taxonomic rank, representing individual organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring.

refers to an organism that consists of a single cell.

organisms that are composed of more than one cell. These cells are specialized to perform specific functions within the organism.