GCE AS Level Biology Unit 1 notes for AQA

GCE AS Level Biology notes written for the AQA specification Biology (2410).

The topics covered in the revision guide are detailed here:


Unit 1
3.1.1 Disease may be caused by infectious pathogens or may reflect the effects of lifestyle Pathogens
Lifestyle
3.1.2 The digestive system provides an interface with the environment. Digestion involves enzymic hydrolysis producing smaller molecules that can be absorbed and assimilated.
The Digestive system
Proteins
Enzyme action
Enzyme properties
Carbohydrate digestion
3.1.3 Substances are exchanged between organisms and their environment by passive or active transport across exchange surfaces. The structure of plasma membranes enables control of the passage of substances across exchange surfaces. Cells
Plasma membranes
Diffusion
Osmosis
Active transport
Absorption
Cholera
3.1.4 The lungs of a mammal act as an interface with the environment. Lung function may be affected by pathogens and by factors relating to lifestyle. Lung function
The biological basis of lung disease
3.1.5 The functioning of the heart plays a central role in the circulation of blood and relates to the level of activity of an individual. Heart disease may be linked to factors affecting lifestyle. Heart structure and function
The biological basis of heart disease
3.1.6 Mammalian blood possesses a number of defensive functions. Principles of immunology