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Friday, March 12, 2010

Introduction to biology

Introduction to biologyThere are plenty of plants and animals on this earth. To study them systematically and scientifically, a new branch of science was coined as biology. So, biology is a science devoted to the study of living organisms. The term biology is derived from the combination of two Greek words [bios=life, logos=discourse and knowledge]. Science has progressed by breaking down complex subject of study into their component parts.Today, there are numerous branches of biology some of them are morphology, histology, physiology,ecology,taxonomy,genetics,cytology, anatomy etc.This principle is often called the 'reductionists' principle.It has focused attention on the most elementary forms of matter in living and non living systems.
First scientific study of living organisms was undertaken by a Greek naturalist, Aristotle. So, he is considered as the father of biology.Some other
major contributions in the development of biology were made by Hippocrates [460-320BC] Aristotle [384-322], Theophrastus[370-285], Robert Hooke[1635-1703AD] , Carolus Linnaeus[1707-1778AD], Charles Darwin[1809-1882AD], Mendel[1822-1884AD] and many other biologists.
The two main branches of biology which deal with the different aspects of plant and animal science are
1.Botany [Gr.botane=herbs]
It is the study of plants.
Theopharstus was first to undertake scientific study on plants. Hence, is known as father of botany.
2.Zoology[Gr.Zoon=animal]
It is the science of animal life.
Nowadays, biology is replaced by the term 'life science' or 'biological sciences' due to its multidisciplinary approach. Biology is very vast and complex subject. It has made people aware of its importance; as it helps to understand the structure and functioning of living organisms. It helps us to understand ourselves and other organisms better. It gives answers to such questions which we are curious to know about. By proper utilization of natural resources it helps to meet our needs in a sustainable manner. Advanced knowledge about resources helps in maintaining a balance between exploitation and regeneration. Study of controlling of pollution hazards and solving problems occuring at global level are also included in biology.

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