Chapter 1

Introduction to Biology and Laboratory

Rules

1.1 Fields and Careers in Biology

 What is biology ?
• The word ‘Biology’ comes from the
Greek word, ‘bios’ means life, and
‘logos’ means study.
• Biology is a detailed study of living
things in natural environment.
• Biology allows us to understand the
structure and function of organisms, as
well as the relationships the interactions
between organisms with the
environment.
 Examples of biological research areas :

1. Botany - Study of plant life

2. Physiology - Study of the function and
mechanisms in organisms
3. Genetics - Study of inheritance and genetic
variation
4. Microbiology - Study of microorganisms
5. Ecology - Study of the interactions between
organisms and their environment
6. Zoology - Study of animals
 Contribution of biology in daily life
1. Medical - In vitro fertilisation (IVF), family
planning, plastic surgery and gene therapy.
2. Pharmaceutical - Production of synthetic
vitamins, vaccines, insulin and synthetic enzymes.
3. Food Production - Use of microorganisms in the
production of cheese, soy sauce, tapai and tempe.
4. Agriculture - Transgenic crops and animals,
hydroponic and aeroponic technology.
 Careers that are related to biology :
• Biologist

• Biotechnologist
• Biology teacher
• Doctor
• Ecologist
• Forensic scientist
• Marine biologist
• Microbiologist