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Responding to change (a2 only)
Infection and response
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Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments (a-level only)
Biological molecules
Organisation
Substance exchange
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Genetic information & variation
Inheritance, variation and evolution
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Britain & the wider world: 1745 -1901
1l the quest for political stability: germany, 1871-1991
The cold war
Inter-war germany
Medieval period: 1066 -1509
2d religious conflict and the church in england, c1529-c1570
2o democracy and nazism: germany, 1918-1945
1f industrialisation and the people: britain, c1783-1885
1c the tudors: england, 1485-1603
2m wars and welfare: britain in transition, 1906-1957
World war two & the holocaust
2n revolution and dictatorship: russia, 1917-1953
2s the making of modern britain, 1951-2007
World war one
Britain: 1509 -1745
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Biology
9 Dec 2025
255
3 pages
Cinzia @cinzia.ewr
Ever wondered how your body creates all its different cell types from just one fertilised egg? The answer... Show more
Think of stem cells as the ultimate biological multitaskers. These undifferentiated cells haven't chosen their career path yet - they're like students who haven't picked their A-levels and could become anything from doctors to artists.
What makes stem cells incredible is their ability to transform into many different cell types. It's like having a magic clay that can become any shape you need - brain cells, muscle cells, blood cells, you name it.
There are two main types you need to know about. Embryonic stem cells are the overachievers - found in embryos, they can develop into almost every single cell type in your body. Adult stem cells, found in places like bone marrow, are more limited but still pretty impressive, only changing into a few specific cell types.
Remember Embryonic = almost everything, Adult = limited options. Think of embryonic stem cells as having an unlimited Netflix subscription, whilst adult stem cells only get access to a few channels!
Here's where plants show off their amazing abilities. Unlike animals, plant cells can differentiate throughout their entire life - imagine if you could completely change careers every few years and be brilliant at each one!
Plants achieve this through special regions called meristems. These are found only in specific locations the tips of roots and shoots, and between the xylem and phloem tissues. Think of meristems as plant factories that never stop producing new, adaptable cells.
The coolest part? Plant cell differentiation isn't permanent. Move a plant cell to a different part of the plant, and it'll happily re-differentiate to suit its new home. It's like a super-flexible employee who can master any department they're moved to.
Key Point Plants keep growing continuously because their stem cells (in meristems) never stop working - unlike animal stem cells which are more limited in where they're found.
Differentiation is basically how cells choose their specialisation - and it's all about switching genes on and off, like flicking light switches in different rooms of a house.
When genes get switched on or off during differentiation, different proteins are made. These proteins determine what the cell becomes and what job it does. It's like following different recipe books - the same kitchen (cell) can make completely different meals (cell types) depending on which recipe (genes) you follow.
This process is what turns a simple stem cell into something highly specialised, whether that's a nerve cell that can send electrical signals or a muscle cell that can contract and move your body.
Think About It Every single cell in your body has the same DNA, but differentiation means only certain bits get used - like having a massive toolbox but only using the tools you need for each specific job!
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
3
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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore essential definitions and concepts in cell biology, including mitosis, osmosis, and cell differentiation. This summary covers key terms such as prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, organelles, and the cell cycle, tailored for AQA Biology students. Ideal for Year 10 revision.
BiologyExplore key concepts of cell division, including mitosis, meiosis, and their roles in human reproduction and genetic inheritance. This resource features exam questions and detailed explanations on stem cells, gametes, and the cell cycle, making it essential for biology students preparing for assessments.
BiologyExplore the processes of cell division, including mitosis and the role of stem cells in growth and repair. This summary covers key concepts such as chromatid formation, cell specialization, and the hierarchy of multicellular organisms. Ideal for N5 Biology students seeking to understand cellular processes and the importance of mitosis in maintaining genetic integrity.
BiologyExplore the fundamental concepts of DNA, including its double helix structure, nucleotide composition, and base pairing rules. This summary covers essential topics for GCSE Biology, focusing on the role of DNA in genetics and molecular biology.
BiologyExplore the fundamentals of DNA, chromosomes, and genes in this concise overview. Learn about the double helix structure, the significance of chromosomes, and the role of genes in coding for proteins. Ideal for students studying genetics and biology.
BiologyExplore the process of mitosis and the role of chromosomes in cell division. This summary covers key concepts such as DNA replication, the cell cycle, and the formation of identical daughter cells. Ideal for students studying cell biology and genetics.
BiologyQuotes from every main character
English LiteratureApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Cinzia
@cinzia.ewr
Ever wondered how your body creates all its different cell types from just one fertilised egg? The answer lies in stem cells - amazing undifferentiated cells that act like biological shape-shifters, transforming into whatever your body needs.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Think of stem cells as the ultimate biological multitaskers. These undifferentiated cells haven't chosen their career path yet - they're like students who haven't picked their A-levels and could become anything from doctors to artists.
What makes stem cells incredible is their ability to transform into many different cell types. It's like having a magic clay that can become any shape you need - brain cells, muscle cells, blood cells, you name it.
There are two main types you need to know about. Embryonic stem cells are the overachievers - found in embryos, they can develop into almost every single cell type in your body. Adult stem cells, found in places like bone marrow, are more limited but still pretty impressive, only changing into a few specific cell types.
Remember: Embryonic = almost everything, Adult = limited options. Think of embryonic stem cells as having an unlimited Netflix subscription, whilst adult stem cells only get access to a few channels!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Here's where plants show off their amazing abilities. Unlike animals, plant cells can differentiate throughout their entire life - imagine if you could completely change careers every few years and be brilliant at each one!
Plants achieve this through special regions called meristems. These are found only in specific locations: the tips of roots and shoots, and between the xylem and phloem tissues. Think of meristems as plant factories that never stop producing new, adaptable cells.
The coolest part? Plant cell differentiation isn't permanent. Move a plant cell to a different part of the plant, and it'll happily re-differentiate to suit its new home. It's like a super-flexible employee who can master any department they're moved to.
Key Point: Plants keep growing continuously because their stem cells (in meristems) never stop working - unlike animal stem cells which are more limited in where they're found.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Differentiation is basically how cells choose their specialisation - and it's all about switching genes on and off, like flicking light switches in different rooms of a house.
When genes get switched on or off during differentiation, different proteins are made. These proteins determine what the cell becomes and what job it does. It's like following different recipe books - the same kitchen (cell) can make completely different meals (cell types) depending on which recipe (genes) you follow.
This process is what turns a simple stem cell into something highly specialised, whether that's a nerve cell that can send electrical signals or a muscle cell that can contract and move your body.
Think About It: Every single cell in your body has the same DNA, but differentiation means only certain bits get used - like having a massive toolbox but only using the tools you need for each specific job!
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
3
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore essential definitions and concepts in cell biology, including mitosis, osmosis, and cell differentiation. This summary covers key terms such as prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, organelles, and the cell cycle, tailored for AQA Biology students. Ideal for Year 10 revision.
BiologyExplore key concepts of cell division, including mitosis, meiosis, and their roles in human reproduction and genetic inheritance. This resource features exam questions and detailed explanations on stem cells, gametes, and the cell cycle, making it essential for biology students preparing for assessments.
BiologyExplore the processes of cell division, including mitosis and the role of stem cells in growth and repair. This summary covers key concepts such as chromatid formation, cell specialization, and the hierarchy of multicellular organisms. Ideal for N5 Biology students seeking to understand cellular processes and the importance of mitosis in maintaining genetic integrity.
BiologyExplore the fundamental concepts of DNA, including its double helix structure, nucleotide composition, and base pairing rules. This summary covers essential topics for GCSE Biology, focusing on the role of DNA in genetics and molecular biology.
BiologyExplore the fundamentals of DNA, chromosomes, and genes in this concise overview. Learn about the double helix structure, the significance of chromosomes, and the role of genes in coding for proteins. Ideal for students studying genetics and biology.
BiologyExplore the process of mitosis and the role of chromosomes in cell division. This summary covers key concepts such as DNA replication, the cell cycle, and the formation of identical daughter cells. Ideal for students studying cell biology and genetics.
BiologyQuotes from every main character
English LiteratureApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Sociology