Cells are the building blocks of all living organisms. They perform all essential functions required for life.

Mitochondria generate most of the cell's supply of ATP through cellular respiration. Their unique structure supports efficient energy production.

Photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy, producing glucose and oxygen. This process is fundamental to plant survival and energy flow in ecosystems.

The cell theory establishes that all living organisms are made up of cells and that new cells arise only from pre-existing ones. Spontaneous generation has been disproven through scientific experimentation.

Chlorophyll is the pigment that captures light energy for photosynthesis. It plays a critical role in enabling plants to convert solar energy into chemical energy.

Ribosomes are the cellular sites where proteins are synthesized by translating messenger RNA. They are essential for producing proteins needed for various cell functions.

Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell because they generate ATP through cellular respiration. This process is critical for supplying energy to the cell.

The cell membrane acts as a selectively permeable barrier, controlling the entry and exit of substances. This regulation helps maintain the internal balance and proper functioning of the cell.

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) stores the genetic blueprint for living organisms. It ensures that genetic information is accurately passed on during cell division and reproduction.

Cell division, particularly mitosis, allows organisms to grow and repair damaged tissues by generating new cells. This process is essential for development and regeneration.

Photosynthesis allows plants to capture and convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. This process is critical to sustaining life on Earth by providing energy to nearly all organisms.

Enzymes function as catalysts that reduce the activation energy needed for metabolic reactions. This accelerates biochemical processes without being consumed in the reaction.

Biodiversity encompasses the range of different species, genetic variations, and ecosystems present in a habitat. It is essential for maintaining ecological balance and resiliency.

DNA replication occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an exact copy of the genetic material. This step is crucial for accurate cell division.

Osmosis is the passive movement of water molecules from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. This process is essential for maintaining water balance in cells.

The inner membrane of mitochondria is highly folded into cristae, which increases the surface area available for the electron transport chain. This design enables a more efficient production of ATP during cellular respiration.

The specificity of enzymes comes from their unique active sites, which are tailored to bind only particular substrates. This ensures that metabolic reactions proceed correctly and efficiently.

A mutation in the DNA sequence can change the amino acid sequence of proteins, potentially altering their structure and function. These changes may have beneficial, harmful, or neutral effects on the organism.

Photosynthesis and cellular respiration form a complementary cycle in living organisms. While photosynthesis stores energy by creating glucose and oxygen, cellular respiration releases that energy by breaking down glucose.

A food web illustrates how multiple food chains are interconnected within an ecosystem, providing a comprehensive view of energy flow. This complexity is far greater than that of a single, linear food chain.