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Chapter 1: Science of BiologySection 1.3 Studying Life
Mr. Varco, SJHS
Characteristics of Life • Biology is the study of life.
• Scientists study life at many levels, from the molecular level to the entire planet (the Biosphere).
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Characteristics of Life
Characteristics of Life
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Characteristics of Life • Most living things share basic common characteristics:
- Composed of cells - Based on a Universal Genetic Code - Obtain and use material and energy - Grow, respond, and reproduce - Respond to their environment - Maintain a stable internal environment - Change over time
Big Ideas in Biology • All living things are made of cells (unicellular or multicellular)
• Living things maintain a stable internal body temperature in a process called homeostasis.
• Every organism has unique structures and functions that evolve over
time.
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Performing Experiments • Biologists always rely on a common system of measurement and safety
when conducting investigations.
• Most scientists use the metric system when collecting data.
• Why do scientists use a common system for measuring? - Many experiments involve gathering quantitative data. - Researchers must be able to easily replicate each other’s work.
