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HSC Biology
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Module 1: Cells as the Basis of LifeCell Structure
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Cell Function4 Topics
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Module 2: Organisation of Living ThingsOrganisation of Cells2 Topics
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Nutrient and Gas Requirements6 Topics
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Transport2 Topics
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Module 3: Biological DiversityEffects of the Environment on Organisms2 Topics
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Adaptations
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Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection
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Evolution - the Evidence
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Module 4: Ecosystem DynamicsPopulation Dynamics
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Past Ecosystems
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Future Ecosystems
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Module 5: HeredityReproduction
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Cell Replication
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DNA and Polypeptide Synthesis
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Genetic Variation
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Inheritance Patterns in a Population
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Module 6: Genetic ChangeMutation1 Topic
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Biotechnology
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Genetic Technologies
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Module 7: Infectious DiseaseCauses of Infectious Disease
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Responses to Pathogens
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Immunity
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Prevention, Treatment and Control
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Module 8: Non-infectious Disease and DisordersHomeostasis
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Causes and Effects
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Epidemiology
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Prevention
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Technologies and Disorders
Lesson 4, Topic 1
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Autotrophs vs Heterotrophs
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Autotrophs can produce their own organic compounds from inorganic compounds surrounding them whereas heterotrophs must consume other organisms for organic substances for energy.
Autotroph | Heterotroph |
Can produce its own food using photosynthesis; producer. | Cannot make its own food, therefore derives its food from other sources; consumer. |
Nutrient and Gas Requirements
Nutrient/Gas Requirement | Autotroph | Heterotroph |
---|---|---|
Oxygen gas | Diffuses into plant across the cell surface | Diffuses through the respiratory surface |
Carbon dioxide gas | Diffuses into the plant | Not required |
Water | Diffuses into the root | Ingested into the digestive system |
Glucose | Produced by photosynthesis | Ingested into the digestive system as either simple or complex carbohydrates, and absorbed into the bloodstream |
Lipids/proteins | Produced by the plant from glucose and mineral ions | Ingested into the digestive system and absorbed into the bloodstream as amino acids, fatty acids or glycerol |
Mineral ions | Move into the plant through the roots by diffusion and active transport | Ingested into the digestive system and absorbed into the bloodstream |