BIOL 121: Principles of Biology

Discover the pivotal role of decomposers and detritivores in forest ecosystems. Understand the catastrophic consequences of their absence, from biomass accumulation to biodiversity loss. Learn how these unsung heroes maintain forest health and sustainability.

Discover the intricacies of synovial joints, the body's most moveable joint type. Explore the role of articular cartilage, joint cavities, and the articular capsule in ensuring smooth movement. Gain insights into the varying presence of fibrocartilage in different synovial joints.

Learn the distinctions between dispersal and vicariance in biology. Understand how organisms' movements and environmental changes play crucial roles in allopatric speciation. Grasp the differences between movement across existing barriers and the creation of new barriers.

Dive into the world of cellular respiration, where glucose transforms into energy-rich ATP. Unpack the crucial steps that occur mainly within the mitochondria, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide and the production of the cell's primary energy currency. Decode life's foundational energy process and its significance in cellular functions.

Explore the intricate process of mitosis and the crucial role it plays in cellular division. Learn how cell cycle control mechanisms, including cyclin degradation and Maturation Promoting Factor (MPF) activity, ensure accurate and regulated cell division.

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.