Table of contents

1. Introduction to Biology2h 42m
2. Chemistry3h 37m
3. Water1h 26m
4. Biomolecules2h 23m
5. Cell Components2h 26m
6. The Membrane2h 31m
7. Energy and Metabolism2h 0m
8. Respiration2h 40m
9. Photosynthesis2h 49m
10. Cell Signaling59m
11. Cell Division2h 47m
12. Meiosis2h 0m
13. Mendelian Genetics4h 44m
14. DNA Synthesis2h 27m
15. Gene Expression3h 6m
16. Regulation of Expression3h 31m
17. Viruses37m
- Viruses
  37m
18. Biotechnology2h 58m
19. Genomics17m
- Genomes
  17m
20. Development1h 5m
21. Evolution3h 1m
22. Evolution of Populations3h 53m
23. Speciation1h 37m
24. History of Life on Earth2h 6m
25. Phylogeny2h 31m
26. Prokaryotes4h 59m
27. Protists1h 12m
28. Plants1h 22m
29. Fungi36m
- Fungi
  19m
- Fungi Reproduction
  17m
30. Overview of Animals34m
- Overview of Animals
  34m
31. Invertebrates1h 2m
32. Vertebrates50m
33. Plant Anatomy1h 3m
34. Vascular Plant Transport1h 2m
- Water Potential
  1h 2m
35. Soil37m
- Soil and Nutrients
  20m
- Nitrogen Fixation
  16m
36. Plant Reproduction47m
- Flowers
  33m
- Seeds
  14m
37. Plant Sensation and Response1h 9m
38. Animal Form and Function1h 19m
39. Digestive System1h 10m
- Digestion
  1h 3m
- Blood Sugar Homeostasis
  7m
40. Circulatory System1h 49m
41. Immune System1h 12m
42. Osmoregulation and Excretion50m
- Osmoregulation and Excretion
  50m
43. Endocrine System1h 4m
- Endocrine System
  1h 4m
44. Animal Reproduction1h 2m
- Animal Reproduction
  1h 2m
45. Nervous System1h 55m
- Neurons and Action Potentials
  1h 8m
- Central and Peripheral Nervous System
  46m
46. Sensory Systems46m
- Sensory System
  46m
47. Muscle Systems23m
- Musculoskeletal System
  23m
48. Ecology3h 11m
49. Animal Behavior28m
- Animal Behavior
  28m
50. Population Ecology3h 41m
51. Community Ecology2h 46m
52. Ecosystems2h 36m
53. Conservation Biology24m
- Conservation Biology
  24m

1. Introduction to Biology

Introduction to Biology

General Biology

1. Introduction to Biology

Introduction to Biology

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1:13 minutes

Problem 9

Textbook Question

What characteristic distinguishes true multicellularity from colonies of cells?

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of multicellularity: True multicellularity refers to organisms composed of multiple cells that are specialized and interdependent, working together to perform specific functions.

Compare with colonies of cells: Colonies are groups of cells that live together but do not exhibit significant specialization or interdependence. Each cell in a colony can often survive and function independently.

Identify the key characteristic: True multicellularity is distinguished by cellular differentiation, where cells take on specialized roles (e.g., muscle cells, nerve cells) and cannot survive independently outside the organism.

Consider interdependence: In true multicellularity, cells rely on each other for survival and proper functioning, forming a cohesive organism. In contrast, cells in a colony are loosely associated and can often separate without harm.

Summarize the distinction: The defining characteristic of true multicellularity is the presence of specialized, interdependent cells that work together as part of a single organism, unlike colonies where cells remain largely independent.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

True Multicellularity

True multicellularity refers to an advanced form of organization where cells are specialized and work together to perform distinct functions. In true multicellular organisms, cells communicate and coordinate their activities, leading to the development of complex structures and systems, such as tissues and organs, which are essential for survival and reproduction.

Cell Specialization

Cell specialization is the process by which generic cells develop into distinct cell types with specific functions. In multicellular organisms, this specialization allows for the division of labor, where different cells perform unique roles, such as muscle contraction, nutrient absorption, or immune response, contributing to the overall efficiency and adaptability of the organism.

Colony vs. Multicellularity

Colonies of cells consist of groups of individual cells that live together but do not exhibit the level of integration seen in true multicellular organisms. In colonies, cells may share resources and provide some level of cooperation, but they remain largely independent and lack specialized functions, which distinguishes them from the highly coordinated and interdependent nature of true multicellularity.