Welcome to Fundamental Biology

Fundamental biology looks at living things to the lowest common denominator. Cells and those important molecules that are vital for the function of life and which are quite literally its building blocks. Topics include:

  • carbohydrates
  • eukarotic and prokaryotic cells

    • The below table is a quick guide to the pages in this section.

    CarbohydratesMonosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides: structures, reactions and uses.
    Analysing CellsElectron microscope and differential centrifugation for analysis. Electron microscope images.
    Cell StructureEukaryotic and prokaryotic cells (differences, organells); endosymbiosis.
    ProteinsAmino acids, polypeptides bonding, primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternanry structures.
    LipidsLearn all about fats and oils: triglycerides; and phospholipids, structures, reactions etc.
    TestsUse of Biochemical tests and chromotography to identify different substances.
    DigestionExtracellular digestion in fungus; human gut wall; and the alimentary canal.
    EnzymesHow they work, what affects how they work and digestive enzymes.
    Gas ExchangeSurface to volume ratio, gas exchange, gills, fillaments, lamellae.
    Cell TransportDiffusion, facilitated diffusion, osmosis (isotonic, hypertonic, hypotonic) and active transport.