Edulight Academy

ADAPTATION IN LIVING ORGANISMS Adaptation is the process by which organisms develop features  or behaviors that enable them to survive and reproduce successfully in their environment. These adaptations can be structural (physical features), physiological (internal body functions), or behavioral (ways an organism acts). Organisms must adapt to their surroundings to cope with changes in climate, food availability, predators, and competition. Without adaptations, organisms may struggle to survive, leading to extinction. Types of adaptations: ·  Structural Adaptation   – Physical features of an organism that help it survive (e.g., the streamlined body of a fish). ·  Physiological Adaptation   – Internal body processes that enhance survival (e.g., the ability of camels to conserve water). ·  Behavioral Adaptation   – Actions taken by an organism to improve survival (e.g., migration of birds). 2. Effects of Availability of Water on Adaptive Modifications The...

 Learning Objectives 1. Structure and functions of male and female mammalian reproductive system. 2. difference between male and female repoductive organs  3. Structures of the gametes (sperms and ovum).  4. Fertilization of development of embryo and birth      Structure and Functions of Male and Female Mammalian Reproductive Systems      The reproductive systems of mammals are specialized to produce, store, and transport gametes  (sperm and egg), facilitate fertilization, and support the development of offspring. Male Reproductive System The male reproductive system is responsible for producing and delivering sperm for fertilization. It consists of the following structures: A. Primary Reproductive Organs (Gonads) – Testes The testes are the site of spermatogenesis (sperm production). Located in the scrotum , which keeps them at a temperature lower than body temperature, essential for sperm development. Leydig cells in the test...

  Carbon Cycle Definition The carbon cycle is the natural process by which carbon moves between the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere through biological, chemical, and geological processes. Processes Photosynthesis: Plants absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere and convert it into organic compounds. Respiration: Organisms release CO₂ back into the atmosphere by breaking down glucose. Decomposition: Microorganisms break down dead organisms, releasing CO₂ into the soil and air. Combustion: Burning fossil fuels and biomass releases CO₂. Ocean Uptake and Release: Oceans absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere, which is later released through marine respiration and decomposition. Importance Maintains atmospheric CO₂ balance. Supports plant growth and food chains. Regulates global temperature (greenhouse effect). Forms fossil fuels over millions of years. Nitrogen Cycle Definition The nitrogen cycle is the continuous movement of nitrogen in different forms betwee...

  Practical on Skeletal System Observation of Bones: Study different bones using real specimens or models. Joint Movement Demonstration: Examine ball-and-socket, hinge, and pivot joints. Bone Strength Test: Compare the strength of dried and fresh bones by applying pressure. X-ray Analysis: Observe X-ray images to identify fractures and bone structures. Practical on Digestion Starch Test (Iodine Test): Add iodine to food samples to detect starch (blue-black color). Protein Test (Biuret Test): Mix food with Biuret solution; purple color indicates protein. Fat Test (Grease Spot Test): Rub food on paper; a translucent spot confirms fat. Enzyme Activity: Observe how amylase breaks down starch into maltose using iodine test. Practical on Circulatory System Heart Dissection: Study chambers, valves, and major blood vessels of a mammalian heart. Pulse Rate Measurement: Measure pulse rate before and after exercise to observe changes. Blood Smear Examination: View...

 Energy Transformation in Nature Energy transformation in nature refers to the conversion of energy from one form to another in biological and ecological systems. The primary source of energy for most life forms is the sun , which is transformed through various biological and physical processes. Key Energy Transformations in Nature: Photosynthesis – Plants, algae, and some bacteria capture solar energy and convert it into chemical energy in the form of glucose. 6 C O 2 + 6 H 2 O + L i g h t E n e r g y → C 6 H 12 O 6 + 6 O 2 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + Light Energy → C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 Cellular Respiration – Organisms break down glucose through aerobic or anaerobic respiration to release ATP (usable energy). C 6 H 12 O 6 + 6 O 2 → 6 C O 2 + 6 H 2 O + A T P C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 → 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + ATP Decomposition – Dead organisms are broken down by decomposers (fungi, bacteria), converting chemical energy into heat and nutrients for the soil. Trophic Interactions – Energy is transf...

  FUNCTIONING ECOSYSTEM  Roles of Autotrophs, Heterotrophs, and Decomposers Autotrophs (Producers) : Organisms (e.g., plants, algae) that produce their own food using sunlight (photosynthesis) or chemicals (chemosynthesis). Heterotrophs (Consumers) : Organisms that obtain energy by consuming other organisms (e.g., herbivores, carnivores, omnivores). Decomposers : Organisms (e.g., fungi, bacteria) that break down dead organisms, recycling nutrients into the ecosystem. Trophic Level Represents a feeding position in a food chain/web. Levels: Producers → Primary Consumers → Secondary Consumers → Tertiary Consumers → Decomposers . Food Chain and Food Webs Food Chain : A linear sequence of organisms through which energy flows. Example: Grass → Grasshopper → Frog → Snake → Hawk . Food Web : A complex network of interconnected food chains showing multiple feeding relationships. Energy Flow Along Trophic Levels (Ecological Pyramids) Pyramid of Numbers : Shows...

                                                                   Cell Division Definition of Cell Division Cell division is the process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells. It is essential for growth, development, reproduction, and tissue repair in living organisms. Types of Cell Division Mitosis : Produces two genetically identical daughter cells; occurs in somatic (body) cells. Meiosis : Produces four genetically diverse daughter cells with half the chromosome number; occurs in gametes (sex cells). Illustration: Mitosis: 2n → 2n + 2n (Diploid to diploid) Meiosis: 2n → n + n + n + n (Diploid to haploid) Stages of Mitosis Prophase : Chromosomes condense, nuclear envelope breaks down, spindle fibers form. Metaphase : Chromosomes align at...