Introduces the basic concepts of biology,
including the definition of life, the levels
of organization of life, the cell theory, and
the diversity of life.
What is life?
There is no single, universally accepted definition of life. However, there
are a number of characteristics that are generally considered to be
essential for life. These include:
Organization: Living things are organized systems that consist of
cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems.
Metabolism: Living things are able to convert energy and matter into
forms that they can use.
Growth: Living things grow and develop over time.
Reproduction: Living things are able to reproduce themselves.
Adaptation: Living things are able to adapt to their environment.
Levels of organization of life
Life is organized on a hierarchy of levels, from the molecular level to the
ecosystem level.
The molecular level is the smallest level of organization. It is the level
at which the basic building blocks of life, such as atoms and
molecules, are found.
The cellular level is the level at which cells are found. Cells are the
basic units of life.
The tissue level is the level at which tissues are found. Tissues are
groups of cells that are similar in structure and function.