Plant-Based Contaminant Cleanup: Phytoremediation Principles
What Is Phytoremediation?
The term phytoremediation combines two Latin words: “plant” and “remedy.” It is defined as the use of plants to metabolize, immobilize, or transfer and detoxify contaminants. It removes toxic substances from the soil through their natural metabolic pathways. It is a low-cost, sustainable, and aesthetically friendly remedy that removes elemental contaminants from the environment.
When Was Phytoremediation Identified?
People first discovered metal-tolerant plants in
Understanding Chromosomes and Genetic Inheritance
Chromatin: DNA-protein complex forming chromosomes. Centromere: Constriction point on a chromosome where spindle fibers attach. Telomere: Repetitive DNA at chromosome ends prevents degradation. Chromatid: One of two copies of a replicated chromosome. Homologous Chromosomes: Chromosome pairs (one from each parent) with the same genes but different alleles. Histones: Proteins that DNA wraps around to form nucleosomes in eukaryotic cells.
Cell Cycle and Division
Interphase:
Period between cell divisions.
Read MoreCell Structure, Function, and Division Fundamentals
Biology Exam Revision: Chapters 1, 2, 3
Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes
- Prokaryote
- A single-celled organism made up of prokaryotic cells. They do not contain membrane-bound organelles. Examples: bacteria, archaea.
- Eukaryote
- A single-celled or multicellular organism made up of eukaryotic cells. They contain membrane-bound organelles. Examples: protists, fungi, plants, animals.
Organelles in Plant and Animal Cells
- Nucleus: Double membrane-bound organelle; contains genetic material (DNA, RNA).
- Endoplasmic Reticulum
Ecosystem Nutrient Cycling and Global Biodiversity Conservation
Nutrient Cycling and Ecosystem Dynamics
The Origin and Movement of Mineral Nitrogen (N)
Nutrients generally move among organisms. The **origin of mineral N** involves converting atmospheric N₂ into mineral forms (NH₄⁺, NO₃⁻) through:
- Biological fixation (by bacteria in roots or soil)
- Lightning fixation
- Industrial fixation (fertilizers)
N Cycling Steps:
- Plant uptake and incorporation (mineral → organic N)
- Resorption before leaf fall (retranslocating nutrients)
- Decomposition of litterfall (organic
Mammalian Adaptations: Locomotion, Metabolism, and Reproduction
L8 – Mammalian Locomotion I: Terrestrial Adaptations
- Cursorial: Running adaptation characterized by long limbs and reduced digits (e.g., pronghorn, cheetah).
- Advantages of Cursorial Locomotion: Increased range, successful migration, and endurance in predator–prey interactions.
- Cursorial Adaptations: Longer distal limbs, reduced or fused bones, and loss of the clavicle.
- Horse Evolution: Extreme digit reduction resulting in a single toe, optimizing efficient endurance.
- Ricochetal: Bipedal hopping utilizing
Core Concepts of Life Science and Biology Fundamentals
Photosynthesis: The Process of Life
- Equation: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ (light + chlorophyll)
- Location: In chloroplasts (mainly leaf cells).
- Purpose: Converts light energy into chemical energy (glucose).
- Reactants: Carbon dioxide (from air), water (from roots).
- Products: Glucose (used/stored), oxygen (released).
- Uses of Glucose:
- Respiration (energy)
- Stored as starch
- Cellulose (cell walls)
- Fats and oils (seeds)
- Proteins (with nitrates)
- Limiting Factors: Light intensity, temperature, CO₂ concentration,