Biology and Psychology Essential Study Reference
Biology and Psychology Cheat Sheet
—–A4 Double-Sided Cheat Sheet Layout—–
Side 1: Biology
Features of Living Things
- Movement, Respiration, Sensitivity, Growth, Reproduction, Excretion, and Nutrition (MRSGREN)
Hierarchy of Classification
- Domain > Kingdom > Phylum > Class > Order > Family > Genus > Species
- Binomial Nomenclature: Genus (capitalized) + species (lowercase), italicized, e.g., Homo sapiens
Cells
- Prokaryotic: No nucleus, no membrane-bound organelles.
- Eukaryotic: Nucleus, membrane-bound organelles.
- Plant vs. Animal Cells:
| Organelle | Plant | Animal |
|---|---|---|
| Nucleus | Yes | Yes |
| Cell Wall | Yes | No |
| Chloroplast | Yes | No |
| Vacuole | Large | Small |
Microscopes
- Light Microscope: Lower magnification, living samples, color visible.
- Electron Microscope: Higher magnification, dead samples, black and white.
- FOV: Field of View; Magnification: Observed size / real size.
DNA and RNA
- DNA: Double-stranded, deoxyribose, bases A-T, C-G; stores genetic information.
- RNA: Single-stranded, ribose, bases A-U, C-G; protein synthesis.
- Genome: All DNA; Gene: DNA segment; Allele: Variant of a gene; Chromosome: Condensed DNA.
- Chromosome: 2 chromatids + centromere; Karyotype: Visual chromosome map.
Mutations and Genetics
- Mutation: Change in DNA or chromosome.
- Causes: Radiation, chemicals, replication errors.
- Fertilization: Offspring inherit 50% from each parent.
- Cell Cycle: Interphase (G1, S, G2), Mitosis (PMAT), Cytokinesis.
- Mitosis: Growth and repair; Meiosis: Gametes, 4 genetically unique cells.
Inheritance
- Punnett Squares: Predict genotype and phenotype.
- Terminology: Homozygous (AA), Heterozygous (Aa), Allele, Genotype, Phenotype.
- Codominance: Both alleles expressed (e.g., AB blood).
- Incomplete Dominance: Blending (e.g., red + white = pink).
- Pedigree Charts: Squares = male, circles = female, shaded = affected.
- Can determine mode of inheritance (dominant/recessive).
Adaptations
- Structural, Behavioral, and Physiological.
Scientific Method
- Question/Hypothesis, Identify Variables: IV (changed), DV (measured), CVs (controlled).
- Data Analysis: Mean, median, range, identify outliers, gaps on graphs.
Mini-diagrams: Cell structure, microscope, DNA double helix, chromosome structure, mitosis vs. meiosis, Punnett squares, simple pedigree chart.
Side 2: Psychology
Nervous System
- CNS: Brain + Spinal Cord; coordinates responses.
- PNS: Sensory and motor neurons connecting CNS to body.
Neuron Structure
- Dendrites: Receive signals.
- Axon: Transmits impulse.
- Synapse: Junction between neurons.
- Myelin Sheath: Speeds transmission.
Brain Components and Functions
| Area | Function |
|---|---|
| Frontal Lobe | Decision making, planning |
| Prefrontal Cortex | Personality, complex thought |
| Thalamus | Sensory relay |
| Hypothalamus | Homeostasis, hormones |
| Parietal Lobe | Sensory info, spatial awareness |
| Occipital Lobe | Vision |
| Temporal Lobe | Hearing, memory |
| Hippocampus | Memory formation |
| Amygdala | Emotion |
| Midbrain | Visual/auditory processing |
| Pons | Relay, sleep control |
| Medulla | Heart rate, breathing |
| Hindbrain | Movement, balance |
Memory Types
- Working Memory: Temporary, active processing.
- Short-Term Memory: Brief storage.
- Long-Term Memory: Permanent storage.
Ethics in Research
- Right to Withdraw: Participant can stop anytime.
- Beneficence: Maximize benefits, minimize harm.
- Justice: Fair treatment of participants.
- Confidentiality: Keep data private.
- Respect: Acknowledge autonomy and dignity.