Biology : a critical thinking approach

Included Index

Scientific investigation --
Cellular and chemical basis of life: Cells; Atoms, molecules, and energy; Biochemical pathways and enzymes; Membrane function --
Physiology of plants and animals: Respiration; Photosynthesis; Gas exchange; Digestion and excretion; Transport and circulation; Movement and communication --
Reproduction and inheritance: Chromosomes and inheritance; Reproduction; Molecular genetics; Mendelian genetics; Population genetics --
Evolution and ecology: Selection; Speciation; Evolution; Populations and communities; Energy and communities; Material cycling and the environment; Diversity of life.

[This book] presents the fundamental concepts of biology and develops students' critical thinking skills to apply these concepts ... [It introduces] the procedures of hypothesis formation, prediction, experimental design, and interpretation ... as the essential parts of scientific investigation ... [It covers] cell theory [and] focus[es] on energy, as well as the catalytic action of enzymes, and diffusion across cell membranes ... [It covers] the major physiological systems in organisms ... Primary emphasis is placed on the application of basic concepts such as diffusion, osmosis, energy capture and release, and the action of enzymes ... [This book] include[s] molecular biology and population genetics, as well as cell division and Mendelian inheritance ... [It finally] cover[s] the mechanisms of selection and speciation as well as the long range implications of evolution.-Pref.