Biology - Themes and Processes
By now you know that Biology is the study of living things. But what does that mean? When we study a subject we analyze its parts so that we can categorize them, order them, and then better make sense of them. It starts with a question: what do all living things have in common? Your book uses 4 categories but there are generally 7 characteristics considered.
Systems make work more efficient: see below.
Systems make work more efficient: see below.
Form fits function. In biology it is necessary for survival; it saves energy; imagine trying to climb a tree without claws or thumbs or riding a bike with square wheels.
In art, not so much. This leads to what we call adaptations. When an organisms form is changed to fit a new function or environment it may eventually become something entirely different, and thus it evolves.
In art, not so much. This leads to what we call adaptations. When an organisms form is changed to fit a new function or environment it may eventually become something entirely different, and thus it evolves.
The Scientific Method
Science requires observing the world around you and using that information to make inferences... but those inferences must be tested through the use of experiment. But don't be fooled by only observing part and missing out on important information.
Set up your own experiments here.
Once you think you know the answer you have to state it as a testable hypothesis: Practice.
Set up your own experiments here.
Once you think you know the answer you have to state it as a testable hypothesis: Practice.
Microscopy
The first microscopes opened up a new world of exploration. You can start with a virtual practice here. Then we can visit Stanford and check out their lab. And compare the images from electron microscopes, SEM, SEM*, and TEM.
And view the video below to get a better idea of the strengths and weaknesses of each type of microscope.
And view the video below to get a better idea of the strengths and weaknesses of each type of microscope.
BIOTECH
Biotechnology has been around since the new stone age. When man first planted seeds in order to harvest he made decisions about which seeds to plant, when to plant them, and under what conditions they would grow best. Today it has gotten more technical; gene splicing is amazingly high tech and can be used in our food supply or as medical treatments.
Take GMO's for instance, GMO's have helped to feed our growing populations but what are the risks?
Take GMO's for instance, GMO's have helped to feed our growing populations but what are the risks?