Biology 2e is designed to cover the scope and sequence requirements of a typical two-semester biology course for science majors. The text provides comprehensive coverage of foundational research and core biology concepts through an evolutionary lens. Biology includes rich features that engage students in scientific inquiry, highlight careers in the biological sciences, and offer everyday applications. The book also includes various types of practice and homework questions that help students understand—and apply—key concepts. The 2nd edition has been revised to incorporate clearer, more current, and more dynamic explanations, while maintaining the same organization as the first edition. Art and illustrations have been substantially improved, and the textbook features additional assessments and related resources.

By the end of this section, you will be able to do the following:

Describe the three stages of interphase
Discuss the behavior of chromosomes during karyokinesis/mitosis
Explain how the cytoplasmic content is divided during cytokinesis
Define the quiescent G0 phase

By the end of this section, you will be able to do the following:

Describe the structure of eukaryotic cells
Compare animal cells with plant cells
State the role of the plasma membrane
Summarize the functions of the major cell organelles

By the end of this section, you will be able to do the following:

Describe the cytoskeleton
Compare the roles of microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules
Compare and contrast cilia and flagella
Summarize the differences among the components of prokaryotic cells, animal cells, and plant cells

Covers the common shapes and features of prokaryotic cells.

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Through a narrated presentation learn about the cell theory, and find out about the characteristics all cells share. [6:38]

This resource provides a detailed diagram of animal, bacterial and plant cells and viral structure. Also included are detailed drawings, with definitions, of each of the cellular organelles.

This site features a clear picture of the plant cell with a concise explanation of its key parts and their functions.

All cells have a barrier around them that separates them from the environment and from other cells. This barrier is called the plasma membrane, or cell membrane. Learn more about the cell membrane in this learning module produced by CK-12.

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Explore the form and function of three of the most important cell parts -- the nucleus, cytoplasm, and membrane -- in this video segment adapted from Carolina Biological Supply's "An Introduction to the Living Cell". [3:47]

In this video segment from An Introduction to the Living Cell, explore the inner workings of a cell, including some of its most important organelles. [3:47]