Introduction

Biology, the study of life and living organisms, is a vast and complex field. To effectively communicate and understand biological concepts, a comprehensive vocabulary is essential. This article provides a detailed list of English vocabulary commonly used in biological experiments, categorized by their respective domains.

Basic Laboratory Terminology

Equipment and Materials

  • Beaker: A container used for mixing or holding liquids.
  • Flask: A narrow-necked container used for storing or heating liquids.
  • Test tube: A glass tube used for holding small quantities of liquids.
  • Microscope: An instrument used to magnify small objects.
  • Pipette: A device used to measure and transfer small volumes of liquids.
  • Petri dish: A flat, shallow dish used for culturing microorganisms.
  • Specimen: A sample of material for examination.

Techniques and Procedures

  • Incubate: To place an organism or sample in a controlled environment to promote growth or development.
  • Sterilize: To kill all forms of life, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
  • Culture: To grow microorganisms in a controlled environment.
  • Observe: To watch or examine carefully.
  • Measure: To determine the size, amount, or degree of something.
  • Record: To write down information for future reference.

Cell Biology Vocabulary

Cell Structures

  • Nucleus: The central part of a cell that contains the genetic material.
  • Cytoplasm: The jelly-like substance that fills the cell.
  • Membrane: A thin layer that surrounds the cell and controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
  • Mitochondria: The energy-producing structures within the cell.
  • Ribosome: The site of protein synthesis within the cell.

Cell Processes

  • Cell division: The process by which a cell divides into two daughter cells.
  • Metabolism: The sum of all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism.
  • Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water.
  • Respiration: The process by which cells convert nutrients into energy.

Genetics Vocabulary

Genetic Concepts

  • Gene: A segment of DNA that encodes a specific protein or RNA molecule.
  • Chromosome: A thread-like structure made of DNA and proteins that carries genetic information.
  • DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that carries genetic information.
  • RNA: Ribonucleic acid, a molecule that plays a role in protein synthesis.
  • Mutation: A change in the DNA sequence.

Genetic Techniques

  • Cloning: The process of creating copies of a DNA molecule or cell.
  • PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): A technique used to amplify a specific DNA sequence.
  • Electrophoresis: A method used to separate DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge.
  • Gel electrophoresis: A type of electrophoresis that uses a gel matrix to separate molecules.

Ecology Vocabulary

Ecosystem Components

  • Organism: An individual living thing.
  • Population: A group of individuals of the same species living in the same area.
  • Community: All the populations of different species living in the same area.
  • Ecosystem: A community of living organisms in conjunction with the non-living components of their environment.

Ecological Processes

  • Biodiversity: The variety of life in a given area.
  • Adaptation: The process by which an organism becomes better suited to its environment.
  • Competition: The struggle for limited resources among individuals or groups.
  • Symbiosis: The relationship between two different organisms living in close association.

Conclusion

This comprehensive list of English vocabulary for biological experiments covers a wide range of terms and concepts. By familiarizing yourself with this vocabulary, you will be better equipped to understand and communicate complex biological ideas. Remember, practice and continuous learning are key to mastering any language, and biology is no exception.