Page 3: Classification and Evolution

This page covers major classification systems and evolutionary concepts, essential for understanding biodiversity.

Definition: Carl Woese's three-domain system divides life into Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukaryota, providing a fundamental framework for biological classification.

Highlight: Natural selection operates through genetic variation within populations, leading to differential survival and reproduction.

Example: The traditional Linnaean classification system uses a hierarchical structure: Kingdom → Phylum → Class → Order → Family → Genus → Species.

Quote: "The discovery of genes as the mechanism of inheritance and variation provides further evidence for the theory of evolution."

Page 2: Specialized Tissues and Biological Processes

This page delves into specialized tissues, biological processes, and sensory organs.

Specialized Tissues and Their Functions

The document discusses various specialized tissues and their roles:

1. Mesophyll tissue in plants for photosynthesis
2. Muscular tissue for force and motion
3. Epithelial tissue for lining organs and blood vessels

Highlight: The waxy cuticle on leaves is a waterproof layer that prevents water loss from the uppermost surface.

Enzymes and Temperature

Enzymes play a crucial role in breaking down food during digestion. However, their function is temperature-dependent.

Highlight: Enzymes denature and cease to function at temperatures above 45°C.

Environmental Factors and Ecosystems

The document touches on factors affecting ecosystems and biodiversity:

1. Burning fossil fuels and deforestation increase atmospheric CO2 concentration
2. Factors affecting seed dispersal include plant height, seed weight, and weather
3. Diffusion is influenced by temperature and concentration gradient

Example: Transects can be used to investigate how environmental factors affect species distribution.

Sensory Organs: The Ear and Eye

Detailed descriptions of the ear and eye structures are provided, including:

1. Outer ear: Pinna, ear canal, and eardrum
2. Middle ear: Ossicles (hammer, anvil, stirrup)
3. Inner ear: Cochlea and auditory nerve
4. Eye components: Retina, lens, cornea, optic nerve, iris, and pupil

Vocabulary: Cochlea - A spiral-shaped structure in the inner ear filled with fluid that converts sound waves into electrical signals.

Importance of Biodiversity

The document highlights the significance of biodiversity for ecosystem stability, environmental benefits, and potential medical discoveries.

Investigating Photosynthesis

A method for investigating the effect of light intensity on photosynthesis rate using pondweed is described.

Example: To study photosynthesis, vary the distance between a lamp and pondweed, counting the number of bubbles produced per unit of time.

Phloem Tubes and Translocation

The structure and function of phloem tubes in plants are explained, including their role in transporting sugars produced during photosynthesis.

Vocabulary: Translocation - The process of moving sugars and other organic compounds through phloem tubes in plants.