Back to revision notes Open full-size SVG Print mind map Part A · Core ideas Key concepts in biology mind map Use your browser’s Print command for A4 landscape, or choose A3 in its paper settings. The SVG remains sharp when enlarged. A text version follows the map.
Read the mind map as text Microscopy Magnification: Image ÷ actual; eyepiece × objectiveUnits: 1 mm = 1,000 µm; 1 µm = 1,000 nmResolution: Separate close points; bigger ≠ clearerPreparation: Thin specimen, stain, coverslip; low power firstDrawing: Clear lines, labels and scaleCells Nucleus: DNA; control; animal / plant cells are eukaryoticCytoplasm: Reactions; ribosomes make proteinsMembrane: Controls movement in and outMitochondria: Most aerobic respiration reactionsChloroplasts: Chlorophyll → light absorptionSupport: Vacuole: sap / pressure; wall: celluloseSpecialisation Adaptation: Structure suits function; sperm tail enables movementEgg: Nutrients; outer layer changes after fertilisationMicrovilli: Large surface area → absorptionCilia: Move mucus towards throatBacteria: Prokaryotic: no nucleus or mitochondriaFeatures: DNA loop; plasmids / flagella / capsules varyEnzymes Catalysts: Proteins; specific active site; reusedBreakdown: Protease: protein → amino acids; amylase: starch → maltoseLipase: Fatty acids + glycerol; synthesis joins moleculesConditions: Optima; excess heat / extreme pH can denatureSaturation: All active sites occupied → rate plateausInvestigation: Amount ÷ time; amylase / iodine; control / repeatTransport Diffusion: Net particles: high → low concentrationSpeed: Gradient, heat, area ↑; distance ↓Osmosis: Water: dilute → concentrated; partially permeable membranePlants: Water in: turgid; water out: flaccid → plasmolysedAnimals: No wall: may burst or shrinkActive: Low → high; carrier proteins; respiration supplies energyOsmosis practical Method: Equal cylinders; sucrose range; blot and reweighChange: (Final − initial) ÷ initial × 100%Direction: Mass gain: water in; mass loss: water outGraph: Repeat → mean; 0% crossing: no net water movementConnections Cells → Transport: Membrane controls exchange Transport → Osmosis practical: Water movement changes potato mass 