Glossary
523 key terms explained in plain language. Search, or pick a letter.
A
ABO blood group
A blood classification based on antigens A and B, controlled by three alleles.
From the lesson Grade 10: Incomplete Dominance, Co-dominance, Sex-Linkage and Human Geneticsacoelomate
An animal with no body cavity
From the lesson Grade 11: Trends in Complexity and Body Plansacrosome
The enzyme-filled cap on the head of a sperm.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Reproductive Systems: Making and Delivering Sex CellsAction potential
Brief all-or-none reversal of membrane voltage that travels along an axon.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic ControlActive site
The pocket of an enzyme where substrate binds.
From the lesson Grade 12: Metabolism, ATP and Enzymes: How Cells Capture and Use EnergyAdaptation
A heritable trait that aids survival and reproduction in the current environment.
From the lesson Grade 10: Natural Selection, Adaptations and Selection PressureAdaptive radiation
Rapid diversification of an ancestral species into several species adapted to different niches.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and ExtinctionADH
Antidiuretic hormone; increases kidney water reabsorption.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical ControlAdult stem cell
A stem cell in a mature organism that forms only certain cell types.
From the lesson Grade 10: Cloning, Stem Cells, Reproductive Technology and Forensicsalcohol fermentation
Fermentation in which pyruvate becomes ethanol and CO2
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and AnaerobicAldosterone
Adrenal hormone that increases sodium reabsorption.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Urinary System: Filtering Blood and Balancing FluidsAlimentary canal
The continuous tube from mouth to anus.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing Foodallele
A version of a gene.
From the lesson Grade 9: Meiosis: Making Sex Cells with Half the Chromosomesallele frequency
The proportion of copies of a gene in a population that are a given allele
From the lesson Grade 11: Microevolution, Mutation and Natural SelectionAllopatric speciation
Speciation that follows geographic separation of populations.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and Extinctionalternation of generations
A life cycle in which a haploid gametophyte and a diploid sporophyte alternate
From the lesson Grade 11: Meiosis and Sexual ReproductionAlveolus
Air sac where gas exchange occurs.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and TransportAmino acid
The monomer of proteins, with an amino group, carboxyl group and variable R group.
From the lesson Grade 12: Molecules of Life: Water, pH, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids and ATPammonification
Conversion of nitrogen wastes and dead remains into ammonium.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cycling of Matter: Water, Carbon, Nitrogen and PhosphorusAnabolism
Reactions that build larger molecules and require energy.
From the lesson Grade 12: Metabolism, ATP and Enzymes: How Cells Capture and Use Energyanalogous structure
A structure with similar function but different origin
From the lesson Grade 11: Macroevolution, Speciation and Evidenceanalogous trait
A similar trait that evolved independently
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of LifeANP
Heart hormone that promotes sodium and water loss.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Urinary System: Filtering Blood and Balancing Fluidsantibody
A protein made by plasma cells that binds a specific antigen
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and PreventionAntibody (immunoglobulin)
Protein that binds a specific antigen.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Lymphatic and Immune Systems: Fluid Return and DefenceAnticodon
The three-base sequence on a tRNA that pairs with an mRNA codon.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to ProteinAntigen
A marker molecule on the surface of a cell.
From the lesson Grade 10: Incomplete Dominance, Co-dominance, Sex-Linkage and Human Geneticsantigenic shift
An abrupt, major change in a virus that leaves people with little or no immunity
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and Preventionantiretroviral therapy
Medication that suppresses HIV and allows the immune system to recover
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and PreventionArteriole
Small artery that is the main site of resistance and pressure control.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and CirculationArtificial selection
Selection in which humans choose which organisms breed, to increase desired traits.
From the lesson Grade 10: Artificial Selection, Breeding and Agricultureasexual reproduction
Reproduction by one parent that produces genetically identical offspring.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and Graftingatmosphere
The layer of air around Earth.
From the lesson Grade 9: Systems Thinking: Dynamic Equilibrium, Feedback and SustainabilityATP
Adenosine triphosphate, the main energy-carrying molecule of the cell
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and AnaerobicATP synthase
Enzyme that uses the H+ gradient to attach phosphate to ADP.
From the lesson Grade 12: Metabolism, ATP and Enzymes: How Cells Capture and Use EnergyAtrium / ventricle
Receiving chamber / pumping chamber of the heart.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and CirculationAutonomic nervous system
Involuntary division controlling cardiac muscle, smooth muscle and glands.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic Controlautotroph (producer)
An organism that makes its own food.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and WaterB
bacteriophage
A virus that infects bacteria
From the lesson Grade 11: Viruses: Structure and Replication CyclesBaroreceptor
Pressure sensor in the aorta and carotid sinuses.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and CirculationBile
Liver secretion whose salts emulsify fats.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing Foodbinary fission
Division of a bacterial cell into two cells after its DNA is copied.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and Graftingbinomial nomenclature
Naming organisms with two words: genus and species
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of Lifebioaccumulation
The build-up of a substance in an organism over time.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and Biomagnificationbiogeochemical cycle
A pathway by which a substance moves through living things, air, water and rock.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cycling of Matter: Water, Carbon, Nitrogen and Phosphorusbiological species concept
A species is a group that interbreeds in nature and produces fertile, viable offspring
From the lesson Grade 11: Macroevolution, Speciation and Evidencebiomagnification
The increase in concentration of a substance at higher levels of a food chain.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and Biomagnificationbiome
A large ecosystem type determined mainly by temperature and precipitation.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and Waterbiosphere
All living things on Earth.
From the lesson Grade 9: Systems Thinking: Dynamic Equilibrium, Feedback and Sustainabilitybiotechnology
The use of biological agents for technological purposes
From the lesson Grade 11: Artificial Selection and Genetic Modificationblastocyst
A hollow ball of about 100 cells with an inner cell mass and trophoblast.
From the lesson Grade 9: Fertilization and Development: Why Offspring Differ from Both ParentsBlood pressure
Force of blood on vessel walls, reported as systolic over diastolic.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and CirculationBohr effect
Lower pH promotes oxygen release from hemoglobin.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and Transportbottleneck effect
A drop in genetic variation after a random event removes much of a population
From the lesson Grade 11: Microevolution, Mutation and Natural SelectionBoyle's law
Gas pressure is inversely proportional to volume at constant temperature.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and TransportBrush border
Microvilli on intestinal cells carrying digestive enzymes.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing FoodBt crop
A plant engineered to make a toxin from Bacillus thuringiensis that harms many insect pests
From the lesson Grade 11: Artificial Selection and Genetic Modificationbudding
Formation of an outgrowth on a parent that develops into a new individual.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and GraftingBuffer
A weak acid with its conjugate base that resists changes in pH.
From the lesson Grade 12: Molecules of Life: Water, pH, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids and ATPC
Calvin cycle
Reactions in the stroma that use ATP and NADPH to build sugar from carbon dioxide
From the lesson Grade 11: Photosynthesiscapsid
The protein coat of a virus
From the lesson Grade 11: Viruses: Structure and Replication CyclesCarbonic anhydrase
Enzyme that interconverts CO2 + H2O and carbonic acid.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and TransportCarcinogen
A substance or exposure that can cause cancer.
From the lesson Grade 10: Interactions of Genes and the EnvironmentCardiac output
Volume pumped by a ventricle per minute (HR x SV).
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and CirculationCarrier
A person with one altered copy of a recessive gene who usually has no symptoms.
From the lesson Grade 10: Interactions of Genes and the EnvironmentCatabolism
Reactions that break down large molecules and release energy.
From the lesson Grade 12: Metabolism, ATP and Enzymes: How Cells Capture and Use Energycell
The smallest unit of structure and function in living things
From the lesson Grade 11: Levels of Organization and Interrelationshipscell cycle
The ordered series of events from the formation of a cell to its division into two genetically identical cells.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell Cyclecell plate
A structure that grows across a plant cell and forms the new cell wall.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical Cellscell theory
All living things are made of cells, the cell is the basic unit of life, and new cells come from existing cells
From the lesson Grade 11: Cell Structure and Functioncellular respiration
The breakdown of glucose to release energy as ATP, producing carbon dioxide
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and Anaerobiccentromere
The pinched region where sister chromatids are held most tightly together.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell Cyclecentrosome
The structure that organizes the spindle.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical Cellscephalization
Concentration of the nervous system and sense organs at the head end
From the lesson Grade 11: Trends in Complexity and Body Planscheckpoint
A point in the cell cycle where the cell pauses until conditions are right.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell Cyclechemiosmosis
The use of a proton gradient to drive ATP synthesis through ATP synthase
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and Anaerobicchemoautotroph
An organism that makes food using chemical energy rather than light.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and WaterChemoreceptor
Sensor that responds to blood CO2, H+ or O2.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and Transportchiasma
The X-shaped point where crossing over occurred.
From the lesson Grade 9: Meiosis: Making Sex Cells with Half the Chromosomeschlorophyll
The main green pigment that absorbs light for photosynthesis
From the lesson Grade 11: Photosynthesischloroplast
The organelle of plants and algae in which photosynthesis occurs
From the lesson Grade 11: Cell Structure and FunctionChromatin
DNA wrapped on histone proteins; condenses into chromosomes at division.
From the lesson Grade 12: DNA, Replication, Gene Expression and Proteinschromosome
A structure of DNA wrapped around proteins that carries genes.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell CycleChyme
Semi-liquid mixture of food and gastric juice.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing Foodcitric acid cycle
A cycle of reactions in the mitochondrial matrix that releases CO2 and loads electron carriers
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and Anaerobicclade
A group that includes an ancestor and all of its descendants
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of Lifecladogram
A tree that groups organisms by shared derived characters
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of Lifeclaim, evidence, reasoning
A pattern for supporting a conclusion with data and logic.
From the lesson Grade 9: Comparing Sexual and Asexual Reproduction: Variation and Survivalclam garden
A rock-walled intertidal terrace built by coastal First Nations to increase clam habitat and productivity
From the lesson Grade 11: Levels of Organization and Interrelationshipscleavage
The early mitotic divisions of the zygote in which cells get smaller.
From the lesson Grade 9: Fertilization and Development: Why Offspring Differ from Both Parentscleavage furrow
The inward pinching of an animal cell's membrane during cytokinesis.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical Cellsclimate change
Long-term change in temperature and weather patterns.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and BiomagnificationClomiphene
Drug that blocks estrogen feedback and so stimulates ovulation.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Reproductive System: Gametes, Hormones and Reproductive HealthClonal selection
Activation and proliferation of lymphocytes whose receptors match an antigen.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Lymphatic and Immune Systems: Fluid Return and Defenceclone
An individual or cell that is genetically identical to its parent or source.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and GraftingCloning
Making identical or nearly identical copies of an organism, cell or DNA sequence.
From the lesson Grade 10: Cloning, Stem Cells, Reproductive Technology and Forensicsclosed circulation
A system in which blood stays inside vessels
From the lesson Grade 11: Trends in Complexity and Body PlansCo-dominance
A pattern in which both alleles are fully expressed in the heterozygote.
From the lesson Grade 10: Incomplete Dominance, Co-dominance, Sex-Linkage and Human Geneticsco-evolution
Reciprocal evolutionary change between interacting species
From the lesson Grade 11: Macroevolution, Speciation and EvidenceCodon
A group of three bases in mRNA that specifies one amino acid or a stop signal.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to ProteinCodon / anticodon
Three-base mRNA unit for an amino acid / matching three bases on tRNA.
From the lesson Grade 12: DNA, Replication, Gene Expression and Proteinscoelom
A fluid-filled body cavity fully lined by mesoderm
From the lesson Grade 11: Trends in Complexity and Body Planscommunity
All the populations of different species living in an area
From the lesson Grade 11: Levels of Organization and InterrelationshipsComplementary base pairing
The rule that A pairs with T and G pairs with C.
From the lesson Grade 10: DNA Structure, Genes and ChromosomesConducting zone
Airways that carry air but do not exchange gas.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and Transportconjugation
Direct transfer of DNA, such as a plasmid, from one bacterium to another
From the lesson Grade 11: Asexual Reproduction and Mitosiscontact tracing
Identifying and monitoring people exposed to an infectious person
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and PreventionContinuous variation
A smooth range of values for a trait in a population, as in height.
From the lesson Grade 10: Interactions of Genes and the EnvironmentConvergent evolution
Evolution of similar traits in unrelated species facing similar pressures.
From the lesson Grade 10: Natural Selection, Adaptations and Selection PressureCorpus luteum
Structure left after ovulation that makes progesterone.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Reproductive System: Gametes, Hormones and Reproductive HealthCortisol
Adrenal glucocorticoid that supplies glucose and suppresses inflammation in long-term stress.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical ControlCRISPR-Cas9
A genome-editing system that uses a guide RNA to direct the Cas9 enzyme to cut DNA at a target.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene Therapycrossing over
Exchange of matching DNA segments between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes.
From the lesson Grade 9: Meiosis: Making Sex Cells with Half the Chromosomescytokinesis
Division of the cytoplasm that completes the formation of two cells.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical CellsD
daughter cell
A cell produced when a parent cell divides.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical Cellsdead zone
An area of water with too little oxygen to support most animals.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and Biomagnificationdecomposer
An organism that breaks down dead material and recycles nutrients.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and Waterdeforestation
Clearing of forests.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and BiomagnificationDehydration synthesis
A reaction that joins monomers by a covalent bond and releases water.
From the lesson Grade 12: Molecules of Life: Water, pH, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids and ATPDenaturation
Loss of a protein's 3-D shape (and function) caused by heat, acid, base or other agents.
From the lesson Grade 12: Molecules of Life: Water, pH, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids and ATPdenitrification
Conversion of nitrate back to nitrogen gas by bacteria.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cycling of Matter: Water, Carbon, Nitrogen and PhosphorusDependence
State in which the brain needs a drug to function normally.
From the lesson Grade 12: Lifestyle, Holistic Health and Disease as an Imbalance of HomeostasisDescent with modification
Change in a population's inherited traits over generations.
From the lesson Grade 10: Natural Selection, Adaptations and Selection PressureDiabetes mellitus
Disorder of insulin production or response causing high blood glucose.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical Controldichotomous key
A tool using paired choices to identify organisms from observable traits
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of LifeDifferentiation
The process by which a cell becomes specialized by expressing certain genes.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to ProteinDiffusion
Net movement of particles from high to low concentration.
From the lesson Grade 12: Cell Membranes, Transport, Levels of Organization and Feedback Loopsdiploid (2n)
Having two sets of chromosomes; 46 in human body cells.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell Cycledirect interaction
One object affects another directly.
From the lesson Grade 9: Systems Thinking: Dynamic Equilibrium, Feedback and SustainabilityDirect-to-consumer genetic test
A genetic test ordered without a health-care provider.
From the lesson Grade 12: Genomics and Biotechnology: Genome Projects, Recombinant DNA, Cloning, GMOs and Gene TherapyDirectional selection
Selection that favours one extreme, shifting the population.
From the lesson Grade 10: Natural Selection, Adaptations and Selection PressureDisease
State in which regulation of the body has failed or is overwhelmed.
From the lesson Grade 12: Lifestyle, Holistic Health and Disease as an Imbalance of HomeostasisDiversifying selection
Selection that favours two or more extremes.
From the lesson Grade 10: Natural Selection, Adaptations and Selection PressureDNA
Deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that stores genetic information as a sequence of bases.
From the lesson Grade 10: DNA Structure, Genes and ChromosomesDNA fingerprinting
A technique that compares DNA profiles to estimate identity.
From the lesson Grade 10: Cloning, Stem Cells, Reproductive Technology and ForensicsDNA ligase
An enzyme that joins DNA fragments.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene TherapyDNA methylation
Addition of methyl groups to DNA, which usually silences a gene.
From the lesson Grade 10: Interactions of Genes and the EnvironmentDNA polymerase
Enzyme that adds complementary nucleotides to build a new DNA strand.
From the lesson Grade 12: DNA, Replication, Gene Expression and ProteinsDNA sequencing
Determining the order of bases in DNA.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene Therapydomain
The broadest level of classification: Bacteria, Archaea or Eukarya
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of LifeDomestication
The process of changing wild species for human use through breeding.
From the lesson Grade 10: Artificial Selection, Breeding and AgricultureDominant
An allele that is expressed when at least one copy is present.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mendelian Genetics, Punnett Squares and Complete DominanceDouble helix
The twisted-ladder shape of DNA, with two antiparallel strands.
From the lesson Grade 10: DNA Structure, Genes and ChromosomesDual innervation
Supply of an organ by both sympathetic and parasympathetic fibres.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic Controldynamic equilibrium
A balance in which opposing processes run at equal rates so the system oscillates around an average.
From the lesson Grade 9: Systems Thinking: Dynamic Equilibrium, Feedback and SustainabilityE
ecosystem
A community together with its non-living surroundings
From the lesson Grade 11: Levels of Organization and InterrelationshipsElder
A person recognized as a keeper and teacher of knowledge in a community.
From the lesson Grade 9: First Peoples Knowledge: Interconnectedness and Sustainability of SystemsElectrolyte
An ion that conducts electricity in solution, such as Na+ or K+.
From the lesson Grade 12: Molecules of Life: Water, pH, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids and ATPelectron transport chain
Protein complexes in a membrane that pass electrons and pump protons
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and Anaerobicembryo
The developing human from week 3 to week 8.
From the lesson Grade 9: Fertilization and Development: Why Offspring Differ from Both ParentsEmbryonic stem cell
A stem cell from an early embryo with high developmental potential.
From the lesson Grade 10: Cloning, Stem Cells, Reproductive Technology and Forensicsemergent property
An ability or feature that appears only when parts are organized together and is absent in the parts alone
From the lesson Grade 11: Levels of Organization and InterrelationshipsEndemic
Found only in one particular region.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and ExtinctionEndocytosis / exocytosis
Vesicle-based transport into / out of the cell.
From the lesson Grade 12: Cell Membranes, Transport, Levels of Organization and Feedback Loopsendometrium
The inner lining of the uterus.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Reproductive Systems: Making and Delivering Sex Cellsendosymbiotic theory
The idea that mitochondria and chloroplasts descend from prokaryotes engulfed by a host cell
From the lesson Grade 11: Cell Structure and FunctionEnhancement
Changing normal traits rather than treating disease.
From the lesson Grade 10: Ethical Considerations of Modern Geneticsenvelope
An outer membrane layer taken from the host cell and carried by some viruses
From the lesson Grade 11: Viruses: Structure and Replication CyclesEnvironment
All non-DNA influences on a trait, such as nutrition, sunlight, chemicals and hormones.
From the lesson Grade 10: Interactions of Genes and the EnvironmentEnvironmental DNA (eDNA)
DNA collected from air, water or soil to detect organisms.
From the lesson Grade 10: Cloning, Stem Cells, Reproductive Technology and ForensicsEnzyme
A protein catalyst that lowers activation energy.
From the lesson Grade 12: Metabolism, ATP and Enzymes: How Cells Capture and Use Energyepididymis
The coiled tube where sperm mature and are stored.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Reproductive Systems: Making and Delivering Sex CellsEpigenetic mark
A chemical tag on DNA or histones that changes gene activity without changing the sequence.
From the lesson Grade 10: Interactions of Genes and the EnvironmentEpigenetics
Changes in gene activity that do not alter the DNA sequence, such as DNA methylation.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to ProteinEpistasis
An interaction in which one gene alters or masks the expression of another gene.
From the lesson Grade 10: Interactions of Genes and the EnvironmentEPSP / IPSP
Depolarizing / hyperpolarizing postsynaptic potential.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic ControlEthics
Reasoning about what is right or wrong and what should be done.
From the lesson Grade 10: Ethical Considerations of Modern Geneticseukaryote
A cell with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles
From the lesson Grade 11: Cell Structure and Functioneutrophication
Nutrient enrichment that causes algae and microbes to overgrow and use up oxygen.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and Biomagnificationevapotranspiration
Evaporation from land and water plus water released by plants.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and WaterExon / intron
Coding segment kept in mRNA / non-coding segment removed by splicing.
From the lesson Grade 12: DNA, Replication, Gene Expression and ProteinsExtinction
The dying out of a species.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and ExtinctionF
Facilitated diffusion
Passive movement through a channel or carrier protein.
From the lesson Grade 12: Cell Membranes, Transport, Levels of Organization and Feedback Loopsfacultative anaerobe
An organism that can switch between aerobic respiration and fermentation
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and Anaerobicfat-soluble
Dissolving in fats, so stored in fatty tissue.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and BiomagnificationFeedback inhibition
Inhibition of an early enzyme in a pathway by the pathway's end product.
From the lesson Grade 12: Metabolism, ATP and Enzymes: How Cells Capture and Use Energyfermentation
Anaerobic pathway that regenerates NAD+ so glycolysis can continue
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and Anaerobicfertilization
The fusion of two gametes to form a zygote.
From the lesson Grade 9: Meiosis: Making Sex Cells with Half the Chromosomesfetus
The developing human from week 9 until birth.
From the lesson Grade 9: Fertilization and Development: Why Offspring Differ from Both ParentsFibrin
Insoluble protein mesh formed from fibrinogen that stabilizes a clot.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and CirculationFiltrate
Fluid forced from the glomerulus into Bowman's capsule.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Urinary System: Filtering Blood and Balancing FluidsFirst Peoples Principles of Learning
Principles published by FNESC that reflect common elements of many First Nations approaches to learning.
From the lesson Grade 9: First Peoples Knowledge: Interconnectedness and Sustainability of SystemsFitness
An organism's relative contribution of offspring to the next generation.
From the lesson Grade 10: Natural Selection, Adaptations and Selection PressureFluid mosaic model
Membrane as a fluid phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.
From the lesson Grade 12: Cell Membranes, Transport, Levels of Organization and Feedback Loopsfollicle
An egg cell surrounded by supporting cells in the ovary.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Reproductive Systems: Making and Delivering Sex CellsFood security
A situation in which food is available, accessible, usable and stable (the four pillars).
From the lesson Grade 10: Artificial Selection, Breeding and Agriculturefood web
Interconnected food chains in an ecosystem.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and Waterfossil fuel
A fuel formed over millions of years from the remains of living things.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cycling of Matter: Water, Carbon, Nitrogen and Phosphorusfounder effect
Allele frequencies in a new population started by few individuals
From the lesson Grade 11: Microevolution, Mutation and Natural Selectionfragmentation
Breaking of the body into pieces that each regrow into a complete individual.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and GraftingFrameshift
An insertion or deletion that shifts the reading frame of codons.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mutation: Types, Causes, Impacts and EvolutionFree sugars
Sugars added to food or found in juice and honey.
From the lesson Grade 12: Lifestyle, Holistic Health and Disease as an Imbalance of HomeostasisG
G0 phase
A resting state in which a cell has left the cell cycle.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell Cyclegamete
A sex cell (egg or sperm).
From the lesson Grade 9: Meiosis: Making Sex Cells with Half the ChromosomesGel electrophoresis
A method that separates DNA fragments by size.
From the lesson Grade 10: Cloning, Stem Cells, Reproductive Technology and Forensicsgene
A segment of a chromosome that codes for a specific protein.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell CycleGene expression
The use of a gene to make a product, usually a protein.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to Proteingene flow
Movement of alleles between populations
From the lesson Grade 11: Microevolution, Mutation and Natural Selectiongene pool
The sum of all the alleles in a population
From the lesson Grade 11: Microevolution, Mutation and Natural SelectionGene therapy
Using genes to treat, prevent or cure disease.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene Therapygeneration time
The time a population takes to double by one round of cell division.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and GraftingGenetic counsellor
A professional who explains genetic risks, tests and options.
From the lesson Grade 10: Ethical Considerations of Modern GeneticsGenetic discrimination
Unfair treatment of people based on their genetic information.
From the lesson Grade 10: Ethical Considerations of Modern GeneticsGenetic diversity
The variety of alleles within a population or species.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and Extinctiongenetic drift
Random change in allele frequencies, strongest in small populations
From the lesson Grade 11: Microevolution, Mutation and Natural SelectionGenetic engineering
Using laboratory methods to alter the DNA of an organism.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene TherapyGenetic variation
Differences in alleles among individuals in a population.
From the lesson Grade 10: Artificial Selection, Breeding and Agriculturegenetically modified organism (GMO)
An organism that has received recombinant DNA
From the lesson Grade 11: Artificial Selection and Genetic Modificationgenome
The complete set of DNA in a cell.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell Cyclegenome editing
Changing a cell's existing DNA, for example with CRISPR-Cas9
From the lesson Grade 11: Artificial Selection and Genetic ModificationGenomics
The study of all of an organism's DNA and how its parts interact.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene TherapyGenotype
The alleles an organism carries.
From the lesson Grade 10: Interactions of Genes and the Environmentgeosphere
Rock, soil and the solid Earth.
From the lesson Grade 9: Systems Thinking: Dynamic Equilibrium, Feedback and Sustainabilitygerm layers
Embryonic tissue layers: ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm
From the lesson Grade 11: Trends in Complexity and Body PlansGermline editing
Changing DNA in eggs, sperm or embryos so that changes can be inherited.
From the lesson Grade 10: Ethical Considerations of Modern GeneticsGermline mutation
A mutation in an egg or sperm cell that can be inherited.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mutation: Types, Causes, Impacts and EvolutionGFR
Glomerular filtration rate: about 125 mL per minute in males.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Urinary System: Filtering Blood and Balancing FluidsGINA
The United States Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008.
From the lesson Grade 10: Ethical Considerations of Modern GeneticsGlial cell
Supporting cell of nervous tissue.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic ControlGlomerulus
Capillary ball in which blood is filtered.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Urinary System: Filtering Blood and Balancing FluidsGlucagon
Pancreatic alpha cell hormone that raises blood glucose.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical Controlglycolysis
Splitting of glucose into two pyruvate in the cytoplasm, with a net gain of 2 ATP
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and AnaerobicGMO
An organism whose DNA has been altered in ways that do not occur naturally.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene TherapyGnRH
Hypothalamic hormone that stimulates LH and FSH release.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Reproductive System: Gametes, Hormones and Reproductive Healthgonad
An organ that makes gametes and sex hormones (testis or ovary).
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Reproductive Systems: Making and Delivering Sex Cellsgradualism
The model in which change is continuous and steady
From the lesson Grade 11: Macroevolution, Speciation and Evidencegreenhouse effect
Warming of Earth's surface because greenhouse gases return some heat toward it.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and Biomagnificationgreenhouse gas
A gas that absorbs heat and slows its loss to space (such as CO2, methane, nitrous oxide).
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and Biomagnificationgymnosperm
A seed plant with exposed seeds
From the lesson Grade 11: Trends in Complexity and Body PlansH
haploid (n)
Having one set of chromosomes; 23 in human sex cells.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell CycleHardy-Weinberg principle
Allele and genotype frequencies stay stable unless an evolutionary force acts
From the lesson Grade 11: Microevolution, Mutation and Natural SelectionhCG
Embryo hormone that maintains the corpus luteum.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Reproductive System: Gametes, Hormones and Reproductive HealthHelicase
Enzyme that unwinds and separates DNA strands.
From the lesson Grade 12: DNA, Replication, Gene Expression and ProteinsHelper / cytotoxic T cell
CD4 cell that coordinates the response / CD8 cell that kills infected cells.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Lymphatic and Immune Systems: Fluid Return and DefenceHematocrit
Percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and CirculationHemoglobin
Iron-containing protein of red cells that binds oxygen.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and TransportHepatic portal vein
Vein carrying absorbed nutrients from the gut to the liver.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing Foodherd immunity
Protection of a population when enough people are immune that a disease cannot spread easily
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and PreventionHeritable trait
A trait controlled at least partly by alleles passed from parents to offspring.
From the lesson Grade 10: Artificial Selection, Breeding and Agriculturehermaphrodite
An individual with both male and female reproductive parts.
From the lesson Grade 9: Comparing Sexual and Asexual Reproduction: Variation and Survivalheterotroph
An organism that relies on food made by other organisms
From the lesson Grade 11: Photosynthesisheterotroph (consumer)
An organism that obtains energy by eating other organisms.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and WaterHeterozygous
Having two different alleles of a gene.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mendelian Genetics, Punnett Squares and Complete DominanceHistone
A protein around which DNA is wrapped in chromatin.
From the lesson Grade 10: DNA Structure, Genes and ChromosomesHIV
Virus that attacks helper T cells.
From the lesson Grade 12: Lifestyle, Holistic Health and Disease as an Imbalance of HomeostasisHolistic health
View of the person as an interconnected whole.
From the lesson Grade 12: Lifestyle, Holistic Health and Disease as an Imbalance of HomeostasisHomeostasis
Maintenance of a relatively stable internal environment.
From the lesson Grade 12: Cell Membranes, Transport, Levels of Organization and Feedback Loopshomologous chromosomes
A matched pair of chromosomes, one from each parent, with the same genes in the same places.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell Cyclehomologous structure
A structure shared by species through common ancestry, possibly with different functions
From the lesson Grade 11: Macroevolution, Speciation and EvidenceHomologous structures
Structures in different species that are similar because of common ancestry.
From the lesson Grade 10: Natural Selection, Adaptations and Selection Pressurehomologous trait
A trait inherited from a common ancestor
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of LifeHomozygous
Having two identical alleles of a gene.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mendelian Genetics, Punnett Squares and Complete Dominancehorizontal gene transfer
Movement of genes between unrelated organisms
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of LifeHormone
Chemical messenger released into the blood that acts on target cells.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical Controlhost range
The set of organisms or cells a virus can infect
From the lesson Grade 11: Viruses: Structure and Replication CyclesHuman Genome Project
An international project (1990 to 2003) that produced the first sequence of the human genome.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene TherapyHydrolysis
A reaction that uses water to split a bond, as in digestion.
From the lesson Grade 12: Molecules of Life: Water, pH, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids and ATPhydrosphere
All the water on Earth.
From the lesson Grade 9: Systems Thinking: Dynamic Equilibrium, Feedback and SustainabilityHypertension
Persistently high blood pressure.
From the lesson Grade 12: Lifestyle, Holistic Health and Disease as an Imbalance of HomeostasisHypophyseal portal system
Blood vessels carrying hypothalamic hormones to the anterior pituitary.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical ControlI
identical twins
Twins formed when one zygote splits into two embryos.
From the lesson Grade 9: Fertilization and Development: Why Offspring Differ from Both Parentsimmunity
The ability to respond quickly and effectively to a pathogen because of earlier exposure
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and Preventionimplantation
Attachment of the blastocyst to the uterine lining at the end of week 1.
From the lesson Grade 9: Fertilization and Development: Why Offspring Differ from Both ParentsIncomplete dominance
A pattern in which the heterozygote shows a phenotype between those of the two homozygotes.
From the lesson Grade 10: Incomplete Dominance, Co-dominance, Sex-Linkage and Human Geneticsindependent assortment
Random orientation of each homologous pair at metaphase I, independent of other pairs.
From the lesson Grade 9: Meiosis: Making Sex Cells with Half the Chromosomesindirect interaction
One object affects another through a third.
From the lesson Grade 9: Systems Thinking: Dynamic Equilibrium, Feedback and SustainabilityInflammation
Local response of vasodilation, leaky vessels and phagocyte recruitment.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Lymphatic and Immune Systems: Fluid Return and DefenceInformed consent
Agreement to a test or treatment after understanding its benefits and risks.
From the lesson Grade 10: Ethical Considerations of Modern GeneticsInnate immunity
Nonspecific, immediate defences present from birth.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Lymphatic and Immune Systems: Fluid Return and DefenceInsulin
Pancreatic beta cell hormone that lowers blood glucose.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical Controlinterconnectedness
The idea that everything is connected, from local to global scales.
From the lesson Grade 9: First Peoples Knowledge: Interconnectedness and Sustainability of Systemsinterferon
A signal released by virus-infected cells that limits viral replication in neighbouring cells
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and Preventionintergenerational
Involving several generations, past, present and future.
From the lesson Grade 9: First Peoples Knowledge: Interconnectedness and Sustainability of Systemsinterphase
The long preparation part of the cell cycle (G1, S and G2).
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell CycleIntrinsic factor
Stomach glycoprotein needed to absorb vitamin B12.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing FoodIntron and exon
Non-coding and coding regions of a eukaryotic gene; introns are removed by splicing.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to ProteinInvasive species
A nonnative organism that spreads and can harm the environment, economy or human health.
From the lesson Grade 10: Natural Selection, Adaptations and Selection PressureIVF
In vitro fertilisation: fertilising eggs in a laboratory and placing an embryo in the womb.
From the lesson Grade 10: Cloning, Stem Cells, Reproductive Technology and ForensicsK
Karyotype
An ordered picture of an individual’s chromosomes.
From the lesson Grade 10: DNA Structure, Genes and Chromosomeskinetochore
A protein structure on each sister chromatid where spindle fibres attach.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical Cellskingdom
A major group within Eukarya, such as Fungi, Plantae or Animalia
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of LifeKrebs cycle
Mitochondrial cycle that oxidizes acetyl CoA to CO2 and loads electron carriers.
From the lesson Grade 12: Metabolism, ATP and Enzymes: How Cells Capture and Use EnergyL
Lacteal
Lymph capillary in a villus that absorbs fats.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing Foodlactic acid fermentation
Fermentation in which pyruvate is reduced to lactate
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and Anaerobiclatency
A dormant state in which a virus persists in the host without making new virions
From the lesson Grade 11: Viruses: Structure and Replication CyclesLaw of independent assortment
Alleles of different genes are sorted into gametes independently.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mendelian Genetics, Punnett Squares and Complete DominanceLaw of segregation
The two alleles of a gene separate into different gametes.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mendelian Genetics, Punnett Squares and Complete Dominancelevels of organization
The ordered layers of biological structure from molecules up to ecosystems, each built from the level below
From the lesson Grade 11: Levels of Organization and InterrelationshipsLH / FSH
Pituitary hormones that act on the gonads.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Reproductive System: Gametes, Hormones and Reproductive Healthlight-dependent reactions
Reactions in the thylakoid membrane that make ATP and NADPH and release oxygen
From the lesson Grade 11: Photosynthesislimiting factor
The factor in shortest supply, which sets the rate of a process
From the lesson Grade 11: PhotosynthesisLoop of Henle
Hairpin segment that creates a salty medulla.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Urinary System: Filtering Blood and Balancing FluidsLymph
Interstitial fluid that has entered lymphatic vessels.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Lymphatic and Immune Systems: Fluid Return and DefenceLymph node
Organ that filters lymph and houses lymphocytes and macrophages.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Lymphatic and Immune Systems: Fluid Return and Defencelysogenic cycle
A viral cycle in which viral DNA joins the host genome and is copied with it
From the lesson Grade 11: Viruses: Structure and Replication Cycleslytic cycle
A viral cycle in which the host cell makes new virions and bursts
From the lesson Grade 11: Viruses: Structure and Replication CyclesM
macroevolution
Major evolutionary change over long periods of time, including the origin of new species
From the lesson Grade 11: Macroevolution, Speciation and Evidencemagnification
How many times larger an image appears than the real object
From the lesson Grade 11: Cell Structure and FunctionMass extinction
An event in which many species disappear in a geologically short time.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and Extinctionmeiosis
Two-division process that forms four haploid cells from one diploid cell.
From the lesson Grade 9: Meiosis: Making Sex Cells with Half the Chromosomesmemory cell
A long-lived B or T cell that responds rapidly to a repeat exposure
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and PreventionMetabolism
The sum of all chemical reactions in the body.
From the lesson Grade 12: Metabolism, ATP and Enzymes: How Cells Capture and Use EnergyMetagenomics
Study of the combined genomes of many species in an environment.
From the lesson Grade 10: Cloning, Stem Cells, Reproductive Technology and Forensicsmetaphase plate
The middle plane of the cell where chromosomes line up in metaphase.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical Cellsmethane
A greenhouse gas released by livestock, landfills, rice farming and wetlands.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and BiomagnificationMHC
Cell-surface molecule that displays antigen fragments to T cells.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Lymphatic and Immune Systems: Fluid Return and Defencemicroevolution
Change in allele frequencies within a population over generations
From the lesson Grade 11: Microevolution, Mutation and Natural SelectionMicturition
Release of urine from the bladder.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Urinary System: Filtering Blood and Balancing FluidsMissense mutation
A substitution that changes one amino acid.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mutation: Types, Causes, Impacts and Evolutionmitochondrion
The organelle that carries out cellular respiration and produces ATP
From the lesson Grade 11: Cell Structure and Functionmitosis
Division of the nucleus that gives two nuclei with identical sets of chromosomes.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical Cellsmolecular clock
Use of the rate of genetic change to estimate time since lineages diverged
From the lesson Grade 11: Macroevolution, Speciation and EvidenceMonoculture
Growing a single crop over a large area.
From the lesson Grade 10: Artificial Selection, Breeding and Agriculturemorula
A solid ball of about 16 cells formed around day 3.
From the lesson Grade 9: Fertilization and Development: Why Offspring Differ from Both ParentsmRNA
Messenger RNA, a working copy of a gene carried to the ribosome.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to ProteinMultiple alleles
More than two alleles of a gene in a population.
From the lesson Grade 10: Incomplete Dominance, Co-dominance, Sex-Linkage and Human GeneticsMutagen
An agent that increases the rate of mutation, such as UV light or some chemicals.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mutation: Types, Causes, Impacts and Evolutionmutation
A change in DNA.
From the lesson Grade 9: Comparing Sexual and Asexual Reproduction: Variation and SurvivalMyelin
Lipid-rich insulation around axons that speeds conduction.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic ControlN
NAD / FAD
Coenzymes that carry electrons (as NADH, FADH2) to the electron transport chain.
From the lesson Grade 12: Metabolism, ATP and Enzymes: How Cells Capture and Use EnergyNADH
An electron carrier produced when NAD+ accepts electrons
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and Anaerobicnatural selection
The process in which individuals with suitable traits survive and reproduce more.
From the lesson Grade 9: Comparing Sexual and Asexual Reproduction: Variation and Survivalnegative feedback
A control loop in which a high level of a hormone causes its own production to decrease.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Reproductive Systems: Making and Delivering Sex CellsNephron
Microscopic functional unit of the kidney.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Urinary System: Filtering Blood and Balancing FluidsNeuron
Cell specialized for rapid communication by electrical and chemical signals.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic ControlNeurotransmitter
Chemical released at a synapse to signal the next cell.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic ControlNiche
The way of life and role of a species in its environment.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and ExtinctionNicotine
Addictive stimulant in tobacco.
From the lesson Grade 12: Lifestyle, Holistic Health and Disease as an Imbalance of Homeostasisnitrification
Conversion of ammonium to nitrite and then nitrate by bacteria.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cycling of Matter: Water, Carbon, Nitrogen and Phosphorusnitrogen fixation
Conversion of nitrogen gas into usable forms by certain bacteria.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cycling of Matter: Water, Carbon, Nitrogen and PhosphorusNondisjunction
A failure of chromosomes to separate properly during meiosis.
From the lesson Grade 10: DNA Structure, Genes and ChromosomesNonsense mutation
A substitution that creates a premature stop codon.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mutation: Types, Causes, Impacts and Evolutionnucleoid
The region of a prokaryotic cell where the DNA is concentrated; it has no membrane
From the lesson Grade 11: Cell Structure and FunctionNucleotide
The building block of DNA: a sugar, a phosphate group and a nitrogen-containing base.
From the lesson Grade 10: DNA Structure, Genes and ChromosomesO
obligate anaerobe
An organism that cannot tolerate oxygen
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and Anaerobicocean current
A movement of water from one place to another.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and WaterOogenesis
Production of an egg cell in the ovary.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Reproductive System: Gametes, Hormones and Reproductive Healthopen circulation
A system in which hemolymph bathes tissues in a body cavity
From the lesson Grade 11: Trends in Complexity and Body Plansorgan
A collection of tissues that perform a common function
From the lesson Grade 11: Levels of Organization and Interrelationshipsorgan system
A group of organs that work together, such as the heart and blood vessels in the circulatory system
From the lesson Grade 11: Levels of Organization and Interrelationshipsorganelle
A membrane-bound compartment in a eukaryotic cell with a specific function
From the lesson Grade 11: Cell Structure and Functionorganism
An individual living thing
From the lesson Grade 11: Levels of Organization and InterrelationshipsOsmosis
Diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.
From the lesson Grade 12: Cell Membranes, Transport, Levels of Organization and Feedback LoopsOutcrossing
Movement of genes from GM crops into other crops or wild plants.
From the lesson Grade 10: Ethical Considerations of Modern Geneticsovulation
The release of an egg from the ovary.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Reproductive Systems: Making and Delivering Sex CellsOxidation / reduction
Loss / gain of electrons; always occur together.
From the lesson Grade 12: Metabolism, ATP and Enzymes: How Cells Capture and Use EnergyP
Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
Raises blood calcium by acting on bone, kidney and (via vitamin D) intestine.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical Controlparsimony
The principle that the simplest explanation, with the fewest events, is most likely
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of Lifeparthenogenesis
Development of an unfertilized egg into a new individual.
From the lesson Grade 9: Comparing Sexual and Asexual Reproduction: Variation and SurvivalPartial pressure
Pressure contributed by one gas in a mixture.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and Transportparts per million (ppm)
A unit of concentration.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and BiomagnificationPCR
A method that copies a chosen region of DNA many times.
From the lesson Grade 10: Cloning, Stem Cells, Reproductive Technology and ForensicsPedigree
A chart showing how a trait is inherited through a family.
From the lesson Grade 10: Incomplete Dominance, Co-dominance, Sex-Linkage and Human GeneticsPepsinogen / pepsin
Inactive precursor / active protein-digesting enzyme of the stomach.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing FoodPeristalsis
Wave of smooth muscle contraction that moves food along.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing Foodpersistent
Hard to break down or excrete.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Impacts: Sources, Sinks, Climate Change and BiomagnificationpH
The negative base-10 logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration; 7 is neutral.
From the lesson Grade 12: Molecules of Life: Water, pH, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids and ATPPhagocyte
Cell that engulfs and digests particles (neutrophil, macrophage).
From the lesson Grade 12: The Lymphatic and Immune Systems: Fluid Return and DefencePhenotype
The observable traits of an organism, produced by genotype and environment.
From the lesson Grade 10: Interactions of Genes and the Environmentphloem
Vascular tissue distributing sugars in a plant
From the lesson Grade 11: Trends in Complexity and Body PlansPhospholipid
A lipid with a hydrophilic phosphate head and two hydrophobic tails; the basis of membranes.
From the lesson Grade 12: Molecules of Life: Water, pH, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids and ATPPhosphorylation
Addition of a phosphate group, as when ADP is converted to ATP.
From the lesson Grade 12: Metabolism, ATP and Enzymes: How Cells Capture and Use Energyphotoautotroph
An organism that makes its own food using light energy
From the lesson Grade 11: Photosynthesisphotosynthesis
Process in which plants, algae and some bacteria use light, carbon dioxide and water to make sugar and oxygen.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and Waterphylogeny
The evolutionary history of a group of organisms
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of Lifeplace
An environment or context people interact with to learn, form memories, connect with culture and establish identity.
From the lesson Grade 9: First Peoples Knowledge: Interconnectedness and Sustainability of Systemsplacenta
The organ that exchanges oxygen, nutrients and wastes between mother and fetus.
From the lesson Grade 9: Fertilization and Development: Why Offspring Differ from Both ParentsPlasma
Liquid matrix of blood; about 92% water.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and CirculationPlasma cell
Activated B cell that secretes antibody.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Lymphatic and Immune Systems: Fluid Return and DefencePlasmid
A small circular DNA molecule that can carry foreign genes into bacteria.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene TherapyPlasmid / vector
A small circular DNA (or virus) used to carry a gene into a host cell.
From the lesson Grade 12: Genomics and Biotechnology: Genome Projects, Recombinant DNA, Cloning, GMOs and Gene Therapyplasmid vector
A small circular DNA molecule used to carry a gene into a host cell
From the lesson Grade 11: Artificial Selection and Genetic Modificationpolar body
A tiny cell produced during egg formation that breaks down.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Reproductive Systems: Making and Delivering Sex CellsPolar molecule
A molecule with unevenly shared electrons, giving partly positive and partly negative ends (water).
From the lesson Grade 12: Molecules of Life: Water, pH, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids and ATPpollen
Protected male gametophytes of seed plants
From the lesson Grade 11: Trends in Complexity and Body PlansPolyculture
Growing multiple crops in the same area.
From the lesson Grade 10: Artificial Selection, Breeding and AgriculturePolygenic trait
A trait influenced by many genes, each with a small effect.
From the lesson Grade 10: Interactions of Genes and the EnvironmentPolyploidy
Having extra sets of chromosomes, which can create reproductive isolation quickly in plants.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and Extinctionpolyspermy
Fertilization of one egg by more than one sperm, which is prevented by blocks in the egg.
From the lesson Grade 9: Fertilization and Development: Why Offspring Differ from Both Parentspopulation
All the individuals of one species living in the same area
From the lesson Grade 11: Levels of Organization and Interrelationshipspositive feedback
A change that triggers a response that amplifies it.
From the lesson Grade 9: Systems Thinking: Dynamic Equilibrium, Feedback and SustainabilityPrEP
Medication taken by HIV-negative people to lower the risk of infection
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and Preventionprokaryote
A cell without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, such as a bacterium or archaeon
From the lesson Grade 11: Cell Structure and FunctionProofreading
Removal of mismatched bases by DNA polymerase during replication.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mutation: Types, Causes, Impacts and Evolutionprophage
Phage DNA integrated into a bacterial chromosome
From the lesson Grade 11: Viruses: Structure and Replication Cyclesprotected knowledge
Teachings shared only with permission or in suitable circumstances.
From the lesson Grade 9: First Peoples Knowledge: Interconnectedness and Sustainability of Systemsproto-oncogene
A normal gene that helps push the cell cycle forward.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical Cellspunctuated equilibrium
The model in which most change occurs during speciation, with long periods of stasis between
From the lesson Grade 11: Macroevolution, Speciation and EvidencePunnett square
A grid showing the possible combinations of gametes from two parents.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mendelian Genetics, Punnett Squares and Complete Dominancepyruvate
A three-carbon product of glycolysis
From the lesson Grade 11: Cellular Respiration: Aerobic and AnaerobicR
random fertilization
Chance decides which sperm fertilizes which egg.
From the lesson Grade 9: Comparing Sexual and Asexual Reproduction: Variation and SurvivalReabsorption
Return of water and solutes from tubule to blood.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Urinary System: Filtering Blood and Balancing Fluidsreassortment
The mixing of gene segments when two flu viruses infect the same cell
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and Preventionreceptor
A host surface molecule to which a virus attaches
From the lesson Grade 11: Viruses: Structure and Replication CyclesRecessive
An allele expressed only when no dominant allele is present.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mendelian Genetics, Punnett Squares and Complete Dominancereciprocity
Giving back in balance with what is taken.
From the lesson Grade 9: First Peoples Knowledge: Interconnectedness and Sustainability of SystemsRecombinant DNA
DNA made by joining DNA from different sources.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene TherapyRed Queen hypothesis
The idea that species must keep varying and adapting because their competitors, predators and parasites are also changing.
From the lesson Grade 9: Comparing Sexual and Asexual Reproduction: Variation and SurvivalReflex
Rapid automatic response, often integrated in the spinal cord.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic ControlRegulation
Rules set by governments to control how a technology is used.
From the lesson Grade 10: Ethical Considerations of Modern GeneticsRenin
Kidney enzyme that begins the angiotensin pathway.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Urinary System: Filtering Blood and Balancing FluidsReplication
The copying of DNA before cell division, with each old strand serving as a template.
From the lesson Grade 10: DNA Structure, Genes and Chromosomesreproductive cloning
Creating a whole animal by moving a body-cell nucleus into an egg with its nucleus removed.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and GraftingReproductive isolation
The inability of two populations to interbreed.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and Extinctionreservoir
A place where matter is stored, such as the ocean or the atmosphere.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cycling of Matter: Water, Carbon, Nitrogen and Phosphorusresolution
The ability of a microscope to show two close structures as separate
From the lesson Grade 11: Cell Structure and Functionrespiration
Process in which organisms use oxygen to release energy and give off carbon dioxide.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cycling of Matter: Water, Carbon, Nitrogen and PhosphorusRespiratory membrane
Thin barrier of alveolar and capillary walls across which gases diffuse.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and TransportResting potential
The membrane's steady voltage when not signalling, about -70 mV.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic ControlRestriction enzyme
An enzyme that cuts DNA at a specific sequence.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene Therapyretrovirus
An RNA virus that copies its genome into DNA using reverse transcriptase
From the lesson Grade 11: Viruses: Structure and Replication Cyclesreverse transcriptase
The viral enzyme that makes DNA from an RNA template
From the lesson Grade 11: Viruses: Structure and Replication CyclesRibosome
The molecular machine that assembles proteins from amino acids.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to ProteinRuBisCO
The enzyme that attaches CO2 to RuBP in carbon fixation
From the lesson Grade 11: PhotosynthesisS
SA node
Pacemaker of the heart in the right atrium.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and CirculationSaltatory conduction
Jumping of the action potential between nodes of Ranvier in myelinated axons.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic Controlscion
The stem piece with desired traits that is joined to another plant in grafting.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and GraftingSecond messenger
Molecule such as cAMP that relays a hormone signal inside the cell.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical ControlSecretin / CCK
Duodenal hormones that stimulate pancreatic bicarbonate / enzymes and bile.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing FoodSecretion
Movement of substances from blood into the tubule.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Urinary System: Filtering Blood and Balancing FluidsSedentary
Insufficiently active.
From the lesson Grade 12: Lifestyle, Holistic Health and Disease as an Imbalance of HomeostasisSegmentation
Local contractions that mix contents in the small intestine.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing FoodSelection pressure
An environmental factor that affects survival and reproduction.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mutation: Types, Causes, Impacts and EvolutionSelective breeding
Another name for artificial selection.
From the lesson Grade 10: Artificial Selection, Breeding and AgricultureSelective permeability
Property of letting some substances cross a membrane and not others.
From the lesson Grade 12: Cell Membranes, Transport, Levels of Organization and Feedback Loopssemen
The fluid containing sperm and secretions of the accessory glands.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Reproductive Systems: Making and Delivering Sex CellsSemiconservative replication
Each new DNA molecule has one old and one new strand.
From the lesson Grade 12: DNA, Replication, Gene Expression and ProteinsSeminiferous tubule
Coiled tubule where sperm form.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Reproductive System: Gametes, Hormones and Reproductive Healthseminiferous tubules
Coiled tubes in the testis where sperm are made.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Reproductive Systems: Making and Delivering Sex Cellsseptum
The dividing wall that forms across a bacterial cell during fission.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and GraftingSex chromosomes
The X and Y chromosomes, which are involved in determining sex.
From the lesson Grade 10: Incomplete Dominance, Co-dominance, Sex-Linkage and Human Geneticssex determination
The way the sex of an offspring is decided.
From the lesson Grade 9: Comparing Sexual and Asexual Reproduction: Variation and SurvivalSex-linked inheritance
Inheritance of genes carried on a sex chromosome, mostly the X.
From the lesson Grade 10: Incomplete Dominance, Co-dominance, Sex-Linkage and Human Geneticsshared derived character
A trait that appears partway through a tree and is found only in some members
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of LifeSilent mutation
A substitution that does not change the amino acid.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mutation: Types, Causes, Impacts and EvolutionSingle-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)
A single-letter difference in the DNA sequence between individuals.
From the lesson Grade 12: Genomics and Biotechnology: Genome Projects, Recombinant DNA, Cloning, GMOs and Gene Therapysink
A process or place that removes a substance from a reservoir and stores it.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cycling of Matter: Water, Carbon, Nitrogen and Phosphorussister chromatids
The two identical copies of a chromosome made by DNA replication, joined at the centromere.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cells from Cells: Why Cells Divide and the Cell CycleSodium-potassium pump
Primary active transporter moving 3 Na+ out and 2 K+ in per ATP.
From the lesson Grade 12: Cell Membranes, Transport, Levels of Organization and Feedback Loopssolar radiation
Energy that reaches Earth from the Sun.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and WaterSomatic cell nuclear transfer
Putting a body cell's nucleus into an egg whose nucleus has been removed.
From the lesson Grade 12: Genomics and Biotechnology: Genome Projects, Recombinant DNA, Cloning, GMOs and Gene TherapySomatic editing
Changing DNA in non-reproductive cells, not passed to future generations.
From the lesson Grade 10: Ethical Considerations of Modern GeneticsSomatic mutation
A mutation in a body cell that is not passed to offspring.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mutation: Types, Causes, Impacts and Evolutionsource
A process or place that releases a substance into a reservoir.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cycling of Matter: Water, Carbon, Nitrogen and PhosphorusSpeciation
The process by which one species splits into two or more species.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and ExtinctionSpecies
A group of organisms that interbreed and produce fertile, viable offspring.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and ExtinctionSpermatogenesis
Production of sperm by mitosis and meiosis.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Reproductive System: Gametes, Hormones and Reproductive Healthspindle
A framework of microtubules that moves chromosomes during division.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical Cellsspore
A tiny reproductive cell that can grow into a new individual without fertilization.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and GraftingStabilizing selection
Selection that favours average trait values.
From the lesson Grade 10: Natural Selection, Adaptations and Selection PressureStakeholder
A person or group affected by a decision.
From the lesson Grade 10: Ethical Considerations of Modern GeneticsStem cell
A cell that can form many different cell types.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to Proteinstewardship
Caring for land and resources for the future.
From the lesson Grade 9: First Peoples Knowledge: Interconnectedness and Sustainability of Systemsstock (rootstock)
The rooted plant that receives the scion in grafting.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and GraftingStroke volume
Volume ejected by a ventricle per beat.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and CirculationSubstitution
A mutation in which one nucleotide is replaced by another.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mutation: Types, Causes, Impacts and Evolutionsurface area-to-volume ratio
The surface area of a cell divided by its volume; it decreases as the cell gets larger
From the lesson Grade 11: Cell Structure and FunctionSurfactant
Phospholipid-protein mixture from type II cells that reduces alveolar surface tension.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and Transportsustainability
Using resources and systems in ways that do not exceed their capacity to recover.
From the lesson Grade 9: Systems Thinking: Dynamic Equilibrium, Feedback and SustainabilitySustainable agriculture
Farming that meets present needs without compromising future generations, while protecting the environment and equity.
From the lesson Grade 10: Artificial Selection, Breeding and Agriculturesymmetry
The arrangement of body parts around an axis or plane (asymmetrical, radial, bilateral)
From the lesson Grade 11: Trends in Complexity and Body PlansSympatric speciation
Speciation within one shared location without physical separation.
From the lesson Grade 10: Adaptive Radiation, Speciation and ExtinctionSynapse
Junction where a neuron communicates with another cell.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Nervous System: Neurons, Signals, Brain and Autonomic Controlsynapsis
The close pairing of homologous chromosomes in prophase I.
From the lesson Grade 9: Meiosis: Making Sex Cells with Half the Chromosomessystem
A set of interacting parts that work together as a whole.
From the lesson Grade 9: Systems Thinking: Dynamic Equilibrium, Feedback and Sustainabilitysystematics
The study of evolutionary relationships that combines evidence from fossils, anatomy and DNA
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of LifeSystole / diastole
Contraction / relaxation phase of the cardiac cycle.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and CirculationT
Target cell
A cell with receptors for a particular hormone.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical Controltaxon
A group of organisms at any level of classification
From the lesson Grade 11: Classification, Phylogeny and the Diversity of LifeTest cross
A cross of an unknown dominant-phenotype individual with a homozygous recessive one.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mendelian Genetics, Punnett Squares and Complete DominanceTestis
Male gonad that makes sperm and testosterone.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Reproductive System: Gametes, Hormones and Reproductive Healthtetrad
A pair of homologous chromosomes made of four chromatids.
From the lesson Grade 9: Meiosis: Making Sex Cells with Half the ChromosomesTherapeutic cloning
Cloning aimed at producing stem cells rather than a whole organism.
From the lesson Grade 10: Cloning, Stem Cells, Reproductive Technology and ForensicsThrombus / embolus
A clot in a vessel / a clot fragment that travels.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Cardiovascular System: Blood, Heart, Vessels and Circulationthylakoid
A flattened membrane disc in a chloroplast that contains chlorophyll
From the lesson Grade 11: PhotosynthesisThyroid hormones (T3, T4)
Iodine-containing hormones that regulate basal metabolic rate.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical ControlTidal volume
Air moved in one quiet breath, about 500 mL.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and Transporttipping point (threshold)
A point beyond which a system shifts to a different state.
From the lesson Grade 9: Systems Thinking: Dynamic Equilibrium, Feedback and Sustainabilitytissue
A group of similar cells that perform a similar or related function
From the lesson Grade 11: Levels of Organization and InterrelationshipsTonicity
The effect of a solution on cell volume (isotonic, hypertonic, hypotonic).
From the lesson Grade 12: Cell Membranes, Transport, Levels of Organization and Feedback Loopstrade winds
Surface winds that blow toward the equator in the tropics.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and Watertraditional ecological knowledge (TEK)
Cumulative knowledge about the natural world, held in communities and passed down, that informs resource management and sustainability.
From the lesson Grade 9: First Peoples Knowledge: Interconnectedness and Sustainability of SystemsTrans fat
Unhealthy fat linked to heart disease.
From the lesson Grade 12: Lifestyle, Holistic Health and Disease as an Imbalance of HomeostasisTranscription
Copying a gene from DNA into RNA.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to ProteinTranscription factor
A protein that binds DNA and helps or blocks transcription of a gene.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to ProteinTransgene
A gene moved into an organism from another source.
From the lesson Grade 10: Genomics, Genetic Engineering, GMOs and Gene Therapytransgenic
Containing a gene from another species
From the lesson Grade 11: Artificial Selection and Genetic ModificationTranslation
Building a polypeptide by reading mRNA codons at a ribosome.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to ProteinTriglyceride
A lipid of one glycerol and three fatty acids; the main energy-storage fat.
From the lesson Grade 12: Molecules of Life: Water, pH, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids and ATPtRNA
Transfer RNA, which carries an amino acid to the ribosome.
From the lesson Grade 10: Gene Expression: From DNA to Proteintrophic level
A feeding step in a food chain.
From the lesson Grade 9: Solar Radiation: The Energy Behind Life, Weather and WaterTropic hormone
Hormone that controls another endocrine gland (TSH, ACTH, FSH, LH).
From the lesson Grade 12: The Endocrine System: Hormones, Glands and Chemical ControlTrue-breeding
Producing offspring with the same trait generation after generation.
From the lesson Grade 10: Mendelian Genetics, Punnett Squares and Complete Dominancetumour
A mass of cells formed when division outpaces normal cell loss.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical Cellstumour suppressor gene
A gene whose protein stops cell division when something is wrong.
From the lesson Grade 9: Mitosis: How One Cell Makes Two Identical CellsU
uterine tube
The tube that carries the egg from the ovary toward the uterus; the usual site of fertilization.
From the lesson Grade 9: Human Reproductive Systems: Making and Delivering Sex CellsV
vaccine
A preparation of harmless antigens that produces immune memory
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and Preventionvariation
Differences in genes and traits among individuals of a population.
From the lesson Grade 9: Comparing Sexual and Asexual Reproduction: Variation and Survivalvegetative propagation
Growing new plants from parts of a parent plant.
From the lesson Grade 9: Asexual Reproduction: Fission, Budding, Spores, Cloning and GraftingVentilation-perfusion matching
Matching airflow to blood flow in each alveolus.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Respiratory System: Ventilation, Gas Exchange and Transportvestigial structure
A structure with little or no function that is a leftover from ancestors
From the lesson Grade 11: Macroevolution, Speciation and EvidenceVillus
Finger-like projection of the small intestine containing capillaries and a lacteal.
From the lesson Grade 12: The Digestive System: Breaking Down and Absorbing FoodW
watershed
The area of land that drains into a river or stream system.
From the lesson Grade 9: First Peoples Knowledge: Interconnectedness and Sustainability of Systemsways of knowing
Beliefs about the nature of knowledge, including cultural, embodied, intuitive and discipline-specific views.
From the lesson Grade 9: First Peoples Knowledge: Interconnectedness and Sustainability of Systemsweathering
The breakdown of rock that releases minerals such as phosphate.
From the lesson Grade 9: Cycling of Matter: Water, Carbon, Nitrogen and PhosphorusWellness
State of balanced mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing.
From the lesson Grade 12: Lifestyle, Holistic Health and Disease as an Imbalance of HomeostasisX
X inactivation
Silencing of one X chromosome in each cell of a female by epigenetic changes.
From the lesson Grade 10: Incomplete Dominance, Co-dominance, Sex-Linkage and Human GeneticsX-linked recessive
A trait caused by a recessive allele on the X chromosome, more often seen in males.
From the lesson Grade 10: Incomplete Dominance, Co-dominance, Sex-Linkage and Human Geneticsxylem
Vascular tissue carrying water and minerals up a plant
From the lesson Grade 11: Trends in Complexity and Body PlansZ
zona pellucida
The clear outer layer around the egg that a sperm must penetrate.
From the lesson Grade 9: Fertilization and Development: Why Offspring Differ from Both Parentszoonotic
Passing from animals to people
From the lesson Grade 11: Viral Disease: Immunity, Vaccines and Preventionzygote
The diploid cell formed when a sperm and egg fuse.
From the lesson Grade 9: Fertilization and Development: Why Offspring Differ from Both Parents