Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

Autotroph Definition Autotrophs are organisms that can produce their own food, using materials from inorganic sources. The word “autotroph” comes from the root words “auto” for “self” and “troph” for “food.” An autotroph is an organism that feeds itself, without the assistance of any other organisms. Autotrophs are extremely important because without them, no other…

Autosome Definition An autosome is a chromosome in a eukaryotic cell that is not a sex chromosome. Unlike prokaryotic cells, eukaryotic cells have many chromosomes in which they package their DNA. This allows eukaryotes to store much more genetic information. Most eukaryotic organisms reproduce through sexual reproduction – meaning that each individual has two copies…

Autopsy Definition An autopsy is a surgical procedure performed on a corpse after death (a period called, “post-mortem.”). It is typically conducted in an attempt to understand the person’s cause of death. The autopsy will be conducted by a trained physician who has specialized in pathology, as determining the cause of death will require a…

Autophagy Definition Autophagy is the digesting of damaged cell organelles and diseased tissue for later recycling or repurposing. Its ancient Greek wording derives from the words for “hollow” and “self-devouring,” or “eating of self,” which accurately describes it as a natural way of pruning off dysfunctional parts. Autophagy is finely-controlled and targeted with the help…

Definition The autonomic nervous system is a complex set of neurons that mediate internal homeostasis without conscious intervention or voluntary control. This system innervates most body parts and influences their activity as well as mediating changes to the overall metabolism. It can be divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Overview The autonomic nervous system (ANS) maintains blood pressure,…

Atrophy Definition Atrophy is a term that describes the wasting away of cell tissue. On a larger scale, atrophy can see a reduction in the size and function of a muscle or limb. This process if often gradual and chronic, if not permanent. However, atrophy is not exclusively a pathologic state. Atrophy is actually a…

ATP Synthase Definition ATP synthase is an enzyme that directly generates adenosine triphosphate (ATP) during the process of cellular respiration. ATP is the main energy molecule used in cells. ATP synthase forms ATP from adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and an inorganic phosphate (Pi) through oxidative phosphorylation, which is a process in which enzymes oxidize nutrients to…

Atavism Definition An atavism is the phenomenon in which a phenotypic trait reappears in an organism after a period of absence. An atavism refers to a trait that is not present in the immediate predecessors of an individual, although was existent in its ancestors. This is possible due to the way genes behave throughout the evolutionary process.…

Asexual Reproduction Definition Asexual reproduction occurs when an organism makes more of itself without exchanging genetic information with another organism through sex. In sexually reproducing organisms, the genomes of two parents are combined to create offspring with unique genetic profiles. This is beneficial to the population because genetically diverse populations have a higher chance of…

Definition Artificial selection or selective breeding describes the human selection of breeding pairs to produce favorable offspring. This applies to all organisms – from virus to four-footer, and from pet to food source. Artificial selection aims to increase the productive or esthetic value of an organism to our advantage. Artificial Selection Examples In the field…