11/08/2024
Subject: Biology
Class: SS1
First Term
Topic: Introduction to Biology
Introduction
The term "Biology" is coined from two Greek words; "bios" meaning "life" and "logos" meaning "study". Therefore, Biology is simply the study of life. That is, the study of living organisms and their interactions with one another and their environments.
A living thing is any organism or a living form that possesses or show the characteristics of life. Thus, they have an organized structure made up of a cell or cells, which requires energy to survive, the ability to reproduce, grow, metabolize, respond to stimuli, move, respire and adapt to the environment. Examples of living things include; bacteria, protozoa, plants, fungi, animals, humans, etc.
Viruses are not absolutely living or non-living. When outside their host, viruses are inactive and seemingly inanimate. When inside their host, they become active and alive; capable of utilizing the host cell’s structures and replicate.
A non-living thing is one that lacks or has stopped displaying the characteristics of life. Thus, they lack or no longer display the capability for growth, reproduction, respiration, metabolism, and movement. They are not capable of responding to stimuli and adapting to their environment. Examples of non-living things are books, rock, sun, water, etc.