BIOL 237: Anatomy and Physiology I

Explore the sensory marvels of the male silkworm moth known as Bombyx mori and how they detect specific chemical signals from females. Uncover a hypothesis about the unique sensitivity of the moth's antennae and a prediction stemming from it. Learn how to design an experiment to test this hypothesis and deepen your understanding of insect behavior.

Explore active and passive transport and understand how ion pumps and phagocytosis fit in. Discover endocytosis as an active transport where cells engulf particles. Differentiate between active transport mechanisms and passive methods like facilitated diffusion.

Discover how our brain interprets the scent of smoke differently based on context. Compare reactions in an open campfire setting versus an enclosed residence hall. Understand the underlying mechanisms of olfactory fatigue and context-driven alarm responses.

Unravel the intricacies of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and its pivotal role in controlling involuntary bodily functions. Differentiate between the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems and their unique contributions. Debunk misconceptions surrounding the ANS's characteristics.

Explore the captivating Oparin-Haldane hypothesis, detailing the three key steps in the journey from non-life to life. Witness the emergence of organic molecules through non-biological processes, the formation of complex molecules, and the ultimate leap to self-replicating DNA. Join us on this scientific exploration of life's origins.

Discover the debate between Intelligent Design (ID) and evolutionary science as they clash over the complexity of biochemical pathways in nature. Explore the concept of guided vs. unguided evolution and how diverse pathways challenge the ID perspective.