Summary
Life processes include breathing and respiration, and the role of viruses. Breathing — the process of inhaling and exhaling air to facilitate gas exchange in the lungs.
Example: During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts, increasing lung volume.
Respiration — a biological process involving gas exchange and energy release in cells.
Example: Aerobic respiration uses oxygen to release energy from glucose.
Viruses — non-living agents that replicate by taking over host cells.
Example: Viruses infect marine bacteria, affecting microbial communities.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Breathing: The process of inhaling and exhaling air.
- Respiration: Biological process of energy release in cells.
- Virus: Non-living agent that replicates in host cells.
Common Confusions
- Breathing vs. Respiration: Breathing is the physical act, while respiration is the cellular process.
- Viruses as living organisms: Viruses are not considered living.
Typical Exam Questions
- What happens during inhalation? The diaphragm contracts, increasing lung volume.
- What is aerobic respiration? It is the release of energy using oxygen.
- How do viruses replicate? By taking over a host cell's metabolic pathways.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Differences between breathing and respiration
- The role of oxygen in aerobic respiration
- Characteristics and replication of viruses