GCSE Biology Glossary
Learn Biology terms in context
Every term is pulled from published ExamCompanion Biology content and linked back to the topics, learning objectives, questions, flashcards, and notes where it appears.
240
published terms
A
122abiotic factor
abiotic factor is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Define abiotic factors as non-living environmental factors that can affect a community..
1 topic link
abiotic factor
abiotic factor is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how a change in an abiotic factor would affect a given community using data or context..
1 topic link
abiotic factor
abiotic factor is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Extract and interpret charts, graphs, and tables showing effects of abiotic factors..
1 topic link
absorbed
absorbed is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how biomass is lost because not all ingested material is absorbed..
1 topic link
abstinence
The practice of refraining from sexual intercourse, particularly during the time when an egg may be present in the oviduct.
1 topic link
abundance
abundance is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe how quadrats can be used to estimate abundance of a species in a habitat..
1 topic link
abundance
abundance is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain why ecologists use sampling methods to estimate distribution and abundance..
1 topic link
abundance
abundance is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Understand mean, mode, and median in relation to abundance data..
1 topic link
accommodation
The process by which the eye adjusts the shape of the lens to focus on near or distant objects.
1 topic link
accommodation
The process by which the eye adjusts the shape of the lens to focus on objects at different distances.
1 topic link
acidic gas
acidic gas is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe air pollution from smoke and acidic gases..
1 topic link
active site
active site is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that enzyme action depends on the shape of the active site..
1 topic link
activity
activity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how temperature changes can affect enzyme activity..
1 topic link
adaptation
adaptation is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Define an adaptation as a feature that helps an organism survive in its usual environment..
1 topic link
adaptation
adaptation is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Distinguish structural, behavioural, and functional adaptations..
1 topic link
adapted
adapted is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Suggest how organisms are adapted to the conditions in which they live using supplied information..
1 topic link
ADH
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is a hormone that regulates water balance in the body by controlling the permeability of kidney tubules.
1 topic link
ADH
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is a hormone that helps regulate water balance in the body by controlling the permeability of kidney tubules.
1 topic link
adrenal glands
Glands located on top of the kidneys that produce hormones, including adrenaline, which are involved in the body's response to stress.
1 topic link
adrenaline
A hormone secreted by the adrenal glands in response to fear or stress, which prepares the body for 'fight or flight' by increasing heart rate and oxygen delivery.
1 topic link
adrenaline
A hormone secreted by the adrenal glands that increases heart rate and enhances oxygen and glucose delivery to the brain and muscles during stress or fear.
1 topic link
adrenaline
A hormone secreted by the adrenal glands that prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses during stress or fear.
1 topic link
adrenaline
A hormone secreted by the adrenal glands in response to stress or fear, increasing heart rate and energy supply to muscles.
1 topic link
adult cell cloning
adult cell cloning is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe adult cell cloning by removing the nucleus from an unfertilised egg cell..
1 topic link
adult cell cloning
adult cell cloning is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that embryo cells from adult cell cloning contain the same genetic information as the adult body cell..
1 topic link
advantages of asexual reproduction
Benefits of asexual reproduction include faster reproduction rates, lower time and energy costs, and the ability to produce many identical offspring in favorable conditions.
1 topic link
advantages of monoclonal antibodies
Benefits of using monoclonal antibodies include their specificity to target antigens, which can lead to more effective treatments with fewer side effects.
1 topic link
aerobic conditions
aerobic conditions is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that Fusarium is grown on glucose syrup in aerobic conditions..
1 topic link
aerobic respiration
A type of respiration that requires oxygen and produces carbon dioxide and water as by-products, along with a high yield of energy.
1 topic link
aerobic respiration
The process of cellular respiration that requires oxygen to convert glucose into carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy.
1 topic link
Aerobic respiration
In Aerobic and anaerobic respiration, Aerobic respiration refers to a type of respiration that requires oxygen to produce energy from glucose. This matters in Respiration because it supports the learning objective to explain that respiration can take place aerobically using oxygen or anaerobically without oxygen. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
Aerobic respiration
A type of respiration that requires oxygen to produce energy from glucose, resulting in carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.
1 topic link
Aerobic respiration
A type of respiration that requires oxygen and produces a high yield of energy by fully oxidizing glucose.
1 topic link
Aerobic respiration equation
The representation of aerobic respiration as a chemical reaction, specifically glucose plus oxygen produces carbon dioxide plus water.
1 topic link
affect
In The human digestive system, affect means affect is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how temperature changes can affect enzyme activity. For Animal tissues, organs and organ systems, use affect to support the objective to explain how temperature changes can affect enzyme activity. Related approved keywords for this objective include temperature, changes, affect, enzyme. This definition is deliberately scoped to The human digestive system, so it preserves this concept without merging it with neighbouring key terms.
1 topic link
affect
affect is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how availability of food can affect population size and competition..
1 topic link
agricultural
agricultural is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe why agricultural antibiotic use should be restricted..
1 topic link
agricultural
agricultural is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe and explain agricultural or biotechnical solutions to demands from a growing human population..
1 topic link
agricultural input
agricultural input is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how the cost of agricultural inputs can affect food security..
1 topic link
agriculture
agriculture is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain potential benefits and risks of genetic engineering in agriculture..
1 topic link
agriculture
agriculture is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain potential benefits and risks of cloning in agriculture and medicine and ethical objections..
1 topic link
alcohol
alcohol is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how alcohol affects the incidence of non-communicable disease..
1 topic link
alcohol
alcohol is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain the effects of alcohol on the liver and brain function..
1 topic link
alcohol
alcohol is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain the effects of smoking and alcohol on unborn babies..
1 topic link
Alexander Fleming
A Scottish bacteriologist who discovered penicillin in 1928, marking a significant advancement in medical treatment.
1 topic link
algebraic equation
An equation that involves variables and constants, which can be solved to find the value of the variables.
1 topic link
allele
In Genetic inheritance, allele means the specific Unit 4.6 idea used to answer this objective: students must explain the terms allele, dominant and recessive. Keep the term curriculum-specific by applying this boundary: DNA is the molecule; a gene is a functional section of that molecule. Do not use allele as a vague inheritance word; link it to Reproduction and explain the exact role it plays in AQA GCSE Biology.
1 topic link
allele
Different forms of a gene that can exist at a specific locus on a chromosome, influencing single-gene characteristics.
1 topic link
Allele
In Genetic inheritance, Allele means the specific Unit 4.6 idea used to answer this objective: students must explain that different forms of a gene are called alleles. Keep the term curriculum-specific by applying this boundary: DNA is the molecule; a gene is a functional section of that molecule. Do not use Allele as a vague inheritance word; link it to Reproduction and explain the exact role it plays in AQA GCSE Biology.
1 topic link
Allele
A variant form of a gene that occupies a specific position on a chromosome and can influence a particular trait.
1 topic link
alveoli
alveoli is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe the basic structures of the lungs that are required, including trachea, bronchi, alveoli and surrounding capillaries..
1 topic link
alveoli
alveoli is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how lungs and alveoli are adapted for efficient gas exchange..
1 topic link
amino acid
The building blocks of proteins, each coded for by a specific sequence of three bases in DNA.
1 topic link
amino acid
The organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins, with their sequence determined by the order of bases in DNA.
1 topic link
Amino acid sequence
The linear order of amino acids encoded by a gene’s DNA sequence, which dictates the protein’s shape and function.
1 topic link
amino acids
Organic compounds that combine to form proteins, which are essential for plant growth and development, synthesized from glucose in plants.
1 topic link
amino acids
The building blocks of proteins, which are produced during the digestion of proteins and cannot be stored in excess.
1 topic link
amino acids
The building blocks of proteins, which are linked together in a specific sequence as determined by the gene.
1 topic link
Amino acids
Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins, essential for protein synthesis and breakdown.
1 topic link
ammonia
A toxic substance produced during deamination that must be converted into urea for safe excretion from the body.
1 topic link
ammonia
A toxic compound produced from the breakdown of proteins that must be converted into urea for safe excretion.
1 topic link
amylase
amylase is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Recall that amylase is a carbohydrase that breaks starch down into simple sugars..
1 topic link
amylase
amylase is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Recall the main sites of production and action of amylase, proteases and lipases..
1 topic link
amylase
amylase is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe how to investigate the effect of pH on amylase using continuous sampling and iodine..
1 topic link
anaerobic decay
anaerobic decay is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that anaerobic decay can produce methane gas..
1 topic link
anaerobic respiration
A type of respiration that occurs without oxygen, resulting in the production of lactic acid in animals or ethanol and carbon dioxide in plants and yeast, along with a lower yield of energy.
1 topic link
anaerobic respiration
A type of respiration that occurs without oxygen, resulting in the production of energy and byproducts such as lactic acid in animals or ethanol and carbon dioxide in yeast.
1 topic link
Anaerobic respiration
A type of respiration that occurs without oxygen, resulting in the production of energy and by-products such as lactic acid or ethanol.
1 topic link
Anaerobic respiration
A type of respiration that occurs without oxygen, producing energy from glucose and resulting in byproducts such as lactic acid or ethanol and carbon dioxide.
1 topic link
Anaerobic respiration
A type of respiration that occurs without oxygen, resulting in lower energy yield and the production of by-products such as lactic acid or ethanol.
1 topic link
Anaerobic respiration
A type of respiration that occurs without oxygen, resulting in the conversion of glucose to lactic acid in muscles.
1 topic link
Anaerobic respiration
A type of respiration that occurs without oxygen, resulting in the production of ethanol and carbon dioxide in yeast and plants.
1 topic link
Anaerobic respiration
A type of respiration that occurs in muscles when there is insufficient oxygen, resulting in the production of energy and lactic acid.
1 topic link
animal (Animal and plant cells 1)
animal (Animal and plant cells 1) means the curriculum-specific idea needed to answer: Compare plant and animal cells using key structural differences.
1 topic link
animals
animals is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe how animals compete for food, mates, and territory..
1 topic link
antibacterial chemicals
Substances produced by plants that inhibit the growth of bacteria, aiding in the plant's defence against infections.
1 topic link
antibacterial chemicals
Substances produced by plants that inhibit the growth of bacteria, helping to protect the plant from infections.
1 topic link
antibiotic
In Resistant bacteria, antibiotic means antibiotic is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe why agricultural antibiotic use should be restricted. This matters in The development of understanding of genetics and evolution because it supports the learning objective to describe why agricultural antibiotic use should be restricted. Use antibiotic only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
antibiotic course
antibiotic course is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain why patients should complete antibiotic courses to reduce the chance of resistant strains surviving..
1 topic link
antibiotic resistance
The ability of bacteria, such as those causing gonorrhoea, to survive and multiply despite the presence of antibiotics like penicillin.
1 topic link
antibiotic resistance
The ability of bacteria to survive and grow in the presence of antibiotics that would normally kill them or inhibit their growth.
1 topic link
antibiotic resistance
antibiotic resistance is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe evidence for evolution including fossils and antibiotic resistance in bacteria..
1 topic link
antibiotic resistance
antibiotic resistance is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that antibiotic resistance in bacteria provides evidence for evolution by natural selection..
1 topic link
antibiotics
Medications used to treat bacterial infections, including gonorrhoea, by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
1 topic link
antibiotics
Medicines used to treat bacterial infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
1 topic link
antibiotics
Medicines that help to cure bacterial diseases by killing infective bacteria inside the body.
1 topic link
antibiotics
Medicines that help to cure bacterial infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
1 topic link
antibiotics
Medicines that are used to treat bacterial infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
1 topic link
antibodies
Proteins produced by white blood cells that specifically target and neutralize pathogens.
1 topic link
antibodies
Proteins produced by white blood cells that identify and neutralize pathogens such as bacteria and viruses.
1 topic link
Antibodies
Proteins produced by hybridoma cells that specifically bind to antigens, used in various diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
1 topic link
antibody production
The process by which lymphocytes are activated to create antibodies in response to specific antigens.
1 topic link
antitoxins
In Human defence systems, antitoxins refers to substances produced by white blood cells that neutralize toxins released by pathogens. This matters in Communicable diseases because it supports the learning objective to explain how white blood cells defend against pathogens by producing antitoxins. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
apex predator
apex predator is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Define apex predators as carnivores with no predators..
1 topic link
apparatus
apparatus is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Apply apparatus and technique skills for ecological sampling, including safe fieldwork and accurate measurement..
1 topic link
apply
In Levels of organisation, apply means apply is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Apply apparatus and technique skills for ecological sampling, including safe fieldwork and accurate measurement. This matters in Organisation of an ecosystem because it supports the learning objective to apply apparatus and technique skills for ecological sampling, including safe fieldwork and accurate measurement. Use apply only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
Apply
In AQA GCSE Biology, Apply means use the scientific idea in a new context or data example rather than only recalling it. For Animal tissues, organs and organ systems, use Apply to support the objective to apply sampling ideas to data about risk factors. Related approved keywords for this objective include risk factors. This definition is deliberately scoped to The effect of lifestyle on some non-communicable diseases, so it preserves this concept without merging it with neighbouring key terms.
1 topic link
appreciate
appreciate is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Appreciate that evolutionary theory developed over time from evidence gathered by many scientists..
1 topic link
appropriate
In Levels of organisation, appropriate means appropriate is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Plot and draw appropriate graphs for ecological data, selecting suitable axis scales. This matters in Organisation of an ecosystem because it supports the learning objective to plot and draw appropriate graphs for ecological data, selecting suitable axis scales. Use appropriate only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
aquatic animals
aquatic animals is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how oxygen levels can affect aquatic animals..
1 topic link
Archaea
Archaea is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Identify the three domains as Archaea, Bacteria and Eukaryota..
1 topic link
Archaea
Archaea is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe Archaea as primitive bacteria usually living in extreme environments..
1 topic link
arteries
arteries is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Recall the names and roles of the aorta, vena cava, pulmonary artery, pulmonary vein and coronary arteries..
1 topic link
arteries
arteries is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Compare arteries, veins and capillaries..
1 topic link
arteries
arteries is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how the structure of arteries, veins and capillaries is related to function..
1 topic link
arteries
arteries is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how narrowing of the coronary arteries reduces blood flow and oxygen supply to heart muscle..
1 topic link
artificial heart
artificial heart is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how artificial hearts can keep patients alive or support recovery while waiting for treatment..
1 topic link
Artificial selection
The intentional selection of organisms with specific characteristics for breeding, used by humans to enhance crop yields and livestock quality.
1 topic link
asexual reproduction
A form of reproduction that involves only one parent, does not involve the fusion of gametes, and results in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.
1 topic link
asexual reproduction
A form of reproduction involving a single parent that produces genetically identical offspring without the fusion of gametes.
1 topic link
asexual reproduction
A form of reproduction involving a single parent that produces genetically identical offspring without the fusion of gametes.
1 topic link
asexual reproduction
A reproductive process that involves only one parent, does not require gamete fusion, and produces genetically identical offspring.
1 topic link
asexual reproduction
A form of reproduction involving one parent that produces genetically identical offspring without the fusion of gametes.
1 topic link
asexual reproduction
A reproductive process that involves only one parent, does not require gamete fusion, and produces genetically identical offspring.
1 topic link
aspirin
In Discovery and development of drugs, aspirin refers to in Discovery and development of drugs, aspirin refers to a painkiller that originates from the willow tree. This matters in Communicable diseases because it supports the learning objective to recall that the painkiller aspirin originates from willow. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions. This matters in Communicable diseases because it supports the learning objective to recall that the painkiller aspirin originates from willow. In exam questions, treat aspirin as the named drug or product students must remember, and link it back to its natural source correctly.
1 topic link
automatic response
A quick reaction to a stimulus that does not involve conscious decision-making, allowing for immediate protective actions.
1 topic link
auxin
A plant hormone that regulates growth by promoting cell elongation, particularly in shoots and roots.
1 topic link
auxins
In Use of plant hormones (HT only), auxins means plant hormones that promote growth and are used as selective weed killers in agriculture. This matters in Plant hormones (biology only) because it supports the learning objective to describe (HT only) the use of auxins as selective weed killers. Use auxins only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
auxins
Plant hormones that promote root formation and are used as rooting powders for plant cuttings.
1 topic link
auxins
Plant hormones that promote root formation and are used in tissue culture to encourage growth.
1 topic link
availability
In Biotic factors, availability means availability is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how availability of food can affect population size and competition. This matters in Adaptations, interdependence and competition because it supports the learning objective to explain how availability of food can affect population size and competition. Use availability only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
available
available is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe how dumping waste reduces land available for organisms..
1 topic link
B
91bacteria
In Communicable (infectious) diseases, bacteria refers to single-celled microorganisms that can reproduce rapidly and may cause infectious diseases. This matters in Communicable diseases because it supports the learning objective to explain that bacteria and viruses may reproduce rapidly inside the body. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
bacteria
In Communicable (infectious) diseases, bacteria refers to microorganisms that can reproduce rapidly and may produce toxins causing harm to the host. This matters in Communicable diseases because it supports the learning objective to explain that bacteria may produce toxins that damage tissues and make us feel ill. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
bacteria
bacteria is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe bacterial cells engineered to produce useful substances such as human insulin..
1 topic link
bacteria
bacteria is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe (HT only) inserting the required gene into a vector such as a bacterial plasmid or virus..
1 topic link
bacteria
In Evidence for evolution, bacteria means bacteria is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe evidence for evolution including fossils and antibiotic resistance in bacteria. This matters in The development of understanding of genetics and evolution because it supports the learning objective to describe evidence for evolution including fossils and antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Use bacteria only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
bacteria
In Evidence for evolution, bacteria means bacteria is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that antibiotic resistance in bacteria provides evidence for evolution by natural selection. This matters in The development of understanding of genetics and evolution because it supports the learning objective to explain that antibiotic resistance in bacteria provides evidence for evolution by natural selection. Use bacteria only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
bacteria
bacteria is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain why bacteria can evolve rapidly because they reproduce quickly..
1 topic link
Bacteria
In Classification of living organisms, Bacteria means bacteria is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Identify the three domains as Archaea, Bacteria and Eukaryota. This matters in Classification of living organisms because it supports the learning objective to identify the three domains as Archaea, Bacteria and Eukaryota. Use Bacteria only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
Bacteria
In Classification of living organisms, Bacteria means bacteria is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe Archaea as primitive bacteria usually living in extreme environments. This matters in Classification of living organisms because it supports the learning objective to describe Archaea as primitive bacteria usually living in extreme environments. Use Bacteria only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
Bacteria
Bacteria is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe Bacteria as true bacteria..
1 topic link
bacterial disease
An illness caused by bacteria, which can be transmitted through various means, including sexual contact.
1 topic link
bacterial infection
An infection caused by bacteria that can be treated with antibiotics, depending on the specific strain.
1 topic link
bacterial pathogens
bacterial pathogens is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how mutations in bacterial pathogens can produce antibiotic-resistant strains..
1 topic link
bark
The protective outer layer of stems in trees, consisting of dead cells that help shield the plant from environmental threats.
1 topic link
barrier methods
Contraceptive methods that physically prevent sperm from reaching an egg, including condoms and diaphragms.
1 topic link
basal metabolic rate
The rate of energy expenditure per unit time by endothermic animals at rest in a neutrally temperate environment.
1 topic link
Base pairing rule
The principle that dictates which bases pair together in DNA: C↔G and A↔T, ensuring accurate replication and transcription of genetic information.
1 topic link
bases
The building blocks of DNA, consisting of adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G), and thymine (T), which determine the genetic code.
1 topic link
behavioural contraception
Methods of contraception that rely on changes in sexual behavior to prevent pregnancy, such as abstaining from intercourse.
1 topic link
benedict
benedict is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe the required practical for testing foods with Benedict's solution, iodine solution and Biuret reagent..
1 topic link
benign
benign is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe benign tumours as abnormal cell growths contained in one area..
1 topic link
best
best is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that individuals best suited to the environment are more likely to survive and breed successfully..
1 topic link
bile
bile is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that bile is made in the liver and stored in the gall bladder..
1 topic link
bile
bile is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how bile neutralises stomach acid and emulsifies fats to increase the rate of fat digestion..
1 topic link
binding site
The specific region on a protein antigen where a monoclonal antibody attaches, allowing for targeted interaction.
1 topic link
binomial system
binomial system is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain the binomial system of naming organisms by genus and species..
1 topic link
biochemical processes
biochemical processes is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how microscope evidence of internal structures and understanding of biochemical processes led to new classification models..
1 topic link
biodiversity
The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem, which can be affected by the use of plant hormones in agriculture and horticulture.
1 topic link
biodiversity
biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Define biodiversity as the variety of different species on Earth or within an ecosystem..
1 topic link
biodiversity
biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how high biodiversity can increase ecosystem stability..
1 topic link
biodiversity
In Biodiversity, biodiversity means biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that biodiversity can reduce dependence of one species on another for food, shelter, or maintenance of the physical environment. This matters in Biodiversity and the effect of human interaction on ecosystems because it supports the learning objective to explain that biodiversity can reduce dependence of one species on another for food, shelter, or maintenance of the physical environment. Use biodiversity only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
biodiversity
biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain why the future of humans depends on maintaining good biodiversity..
1 topic link
biodiversity
biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe how human activities can reduce biodiversity..
1 topic link
biodiversity
biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how waste can affect biodiversity..
1 topic link
biodiversity
biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how deforestation can affect biodiversity..
1 topic link
biodiversity
biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how global warming can affect biodiversity..
1 topic link
biodiversity
biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how pollution can kill plants and animals and reduce biodiversity..
1 topic link
biodiversity
biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how destroying peat bogs reduces biodiversity..
1 topic link
biodiversity
biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Evaluate peat conservation in relation to biodiversity and carbon dioxide emissions..
1 topic link
biodiversity
biodiversity is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how deforestation can reduce biodiversity through habitat loss..
1 topic link
biofuel
biofuel is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe large-scale deforestation to grow crops for biofuels..
1 topic link
biogas generator
biogas generator is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe how biogas generators can produce methane as a fuel..
1 topic link
biological consequence
biological consequence is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe biological consequences of global warming using examples..
1 topic link
biomass
biomass is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that photosynthetic organisms are producers of biomass for life on Earth..
1 topic link
biomass
biomass is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe pyramids of biomass as diagrams showing relative biomass at each trophic level..
1 topic link
biomass
biomass is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain why trophic level 1 is shown at the bottom of a biomass pyramid..
1 topic link
biomass
biomass is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Construct accurate pyramids of biomass from appropriate data..
1 topic link
biomass
biomass is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Use data and scales correctly when drawing pyramids of biomass..
1 topic link
biomass
biomass is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Interpret biomass pyramids in relation to food chains and trophic levels..
1 topic link
biomass
In Transfer of biomass, biomass means biomass is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how biomass is lost because not all ingested material is absorbed. This matters in Trophic levels in an ecosystem (biology only) because it supports the learning objective to explain how biomass is lost because not all ingested material is absorbed. Use biomass only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
biomass
biomass is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe harvesting and purifying fungal biomass to produce protein-rich mycoprotein..
1 topic link
biomass transfer
biomass transfer is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain why large amounts of glucose used in respiration reduce biomass transfer..
1 topic link
biomass transfer
biomass transfer is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Calculate the efficiency of biomass transfer between trophic levels using percentages..
1 topic link
biomass transfer
biomass transfer is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Calculate the efficiency of biomass transfer between trophic levels using fractions of mass..
1 topic link
biomass transfer
biomass transfer is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how biomass transfer efficiency affects the number of organisms at each trophic level..
1 topic link
biomolecules
Organic molecules that are essential for life, including carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, which can be tested for using qualitative reagents.
1 topic link
biotechnical
In Role of biotechnology, biotechnical means biotechnical is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe and explain agricultural or biotechnical solutions to demands from a growing human population. This matters in Food production (biology only) because it supports the learning objective to describe and explain agricultural or biotechnical solutions to demands from a growing human population. Use biotechnical only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
biotechnology
biotechnology is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe how modern biotechnology can culture large quantities of microorganisms for food..
1 topic link
biotic factor
biotic factor is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Define biotic factors as living factors that can affect a community..
1 topic link
biotic factor
biotic factor is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how a change in a biotic factor might affect a given community using data or context..
1 topic link
biotic factor
biotic factor is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Extract and interpret charts, graphs, and tables showing effects of biotic factors..
1 topic link
birth rate
birth rate is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe how increasing birth rate can threaten food security in some countries..
1 topic link
Black Spot
A fungal disease that affects roses and other plants, characterized by black spots on leaves, leading to leaf drop.
1 topic link
blood
blood is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain the role of the left ventricle in pumping blood to the rest of the body..
1 topic link
blood
blood is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that blood is a tissue made of plasma with cells and platelets suspended in it..
1 topic link
blood
blood is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe the function and adaptations of red blood cells..
1 topic link
blood
blood is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe the function of white blood cells in defending against disease..
1 topic link
blood
blood is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Recognise different blood cells in diagrams or microscope images..
1 topic link
blood
blood is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how blood cells are adapted to their functions..
1 topic link
blood
blood is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Evaluate risks linked to the use of blood products..
1 topic link
blood
In Coronary heart disease: a non-communicable disease, blood means blood is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how narrowing of the coronary arteries reduces blood flow and oxygen supply to heart muscle. For Animal tissues, organs and organ systems, use blood to support the objective to explain how narrowing of the coronary arteries reduces blood flow and oxygen supply to heart muscle. Related approved keywords for this objective include narrowing, coronary, arteries, reduces. This definition is deliberately scoped to Coronary heart disease: a non-communicable disease, so it preserves this concept without merging it with neighbouring key terms.
1 topic link
blood glucose concentration
The level of glucose present in the blood, which is regulated by homeostasis to provide energy for cellular functions.
1 topic link
blood glucose concentration
Blood glucose concentration refers to the amount of glucose present in the bloodstream, which needs to be maintained within a specific range for proper bodily function.
1 topic link
blood glucose concentration
The level of glucose present in the blood, which is monitored and regulated by hormones such as insulin and glucagon.
1 topic link
Blood glucose concentration
The level of glucose present in the blood, which is controlled by the pancreas to maintain homeostasis.
1 topic link
body fluids
Fluids such as blood, semen, and vaginal secretions that can carry the HIV virus and facilitate its transmission.
1 topic link
body temperature
The internal temperature of an organism, maintained within a narrow range by homeostatic mechanisms to ensure optimal enzyme activity and metabolic processes.
1 topic link
body temperature
An internal condition that is maintained within a narrow range to ensure proper physiological function.
1 topic link
brain
In The brain (biology only), brain means an organ made of billions of interconnected neurones that controls complex behaviour. This matters in The human nervous system because it supports the learning objective to identify the cerebral cortex as the brain region associated with consciousness, intelligence, memory and language. Use brain only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
brain complexity
The intricate structure and function of the brain, which consists of billions of interconnected neurones, making it challenging to study and treat disorders.
1 topic link
brain damage
Injury to the brain that can affect cognitive, physical, and emotional functions, often studied to understand brain function.
1 topic link
brain procedures
Medical interventions performed on the brain to treat disorders or injuries, which can have both benefits and risks.
1 topic link
breath volume
The amount of air inhaled or exhaled in one breath, which increases during exercise to provide more oxygen to the body.
1 topic link
breathing rate
The number of breaths taken per minute, which increases during exercise to enhance oxygen supply to muscles.
1 topic link
breeding
breeding is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain why fish stocks must be maintained at levels where breeding continues..
1 topic link
breeding programme
breeding programme is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe breeding programmes for endangered species as a method of maintaining biodiversity..
1 topic link
bronchi
The bronchi are the two main branches of the trachea that lead into the lungs, acting as non-specific defence systems by trapping and expelling pathogens.
1 topic link
build
build is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how the products of digestion are used to build new carbohydrates, lipids and proteins, and how some glucose is used in respiration..
1 topic link
building
building is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe how building reduces land available for other animals and plants..
1 topic link
bulb division
A form of asexual reproduction in which a bulb, a storage organ, divides to produce new plants, as seen in daffodils.
1 topic link
burrows
burrows is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe fossils as preserved traces such as footprints, burrows and rootlet traces..
1 topic link
C
27calculate
calculate is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Calculate and compare reaction rates in enzyme investigations..
1 topic link
Calculate
In Levels of organisation, Calculate means calculate is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Calculate arithmetic means from ecological sampling data. This matters in Organisation of an ecosystem because it supports the learning objective to calculate arithmetic means from ecological sampling data. Use Calculate only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
calculations
calculations is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Use simple compound measures and rate calculations in the context of blood flow..
1 topic link
cancer
cancer is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that cancer results from changes in cells that cause uncontrolled growth and division..
1 topic link
cancer
cancer is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe malignant tumours as cancers that invade neighbouring tissues..
1 topic link
cancer
cancer is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that lifestyle risk factors increase the chance of some cancers..
1 topic link
cancer
cancer is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that some cancers are also linked to genetic risk factors..
1 topic link
cancers
cancers is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how viruses in cells can trigger cancers..
1 topic link
capillaries
In The heart and blood vessels, capillaries means capillaries is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe the basic structures of the lungs that are required, including trachea, bronchi, alveoli and surrounding capillaries. For Animal tissues, organs and organ systems, use capillaries to support the objective to describe the basic structures of the lungs that are required, including trachea, bronchi, alveoli and surrounding capillaries. Related approved keywords for this objective include lungs, capillaries, alveoli. This definition is deliberately scoped to The heart and blood vessels, so it preserves this concept without merging it with neighbouring key terms.
1 topic link
capillaries
In The heart and blood vessels, capillaries means capillaries is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Compare arteries, veins and capillaries. For Animal tissues, organs and organ systems, use capillaries to support the objective to compare arteries, veins and capillaries. Related approved keywords for this objective include veins, arteries, capillaries. This definition is deliberately scoped to The heart and blood vessels, so it preserves this concept without merging it with neighbouring key terms.
1 topic link
capillaries
In The heart and blood vessels, capillaries means capillaries is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how the structure of arteries, veins and capillaries is related to function. For Animal tissues, organs and organ systems, use capillaries to support the objective to explain how the structure of arteries, veins and capillaries is related to function. Related approved keywords for this objective include veins, arteries, capillaries. This definition is deliberately scoped to The heart and blood vessels, so it preserves this concept without merging it with neighbouring key terms.
1 topic link
carbohydrate-controlled diet
A dietary approach that limits carbohydrate intake to help manage blood glucose levels, particularly in individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
1 topic link
carbohydrates
In The human digestive system, carbohydrates means carbohydrates is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how the products of digestion are used to build new carbohydrates, lipids and proteins, and how some glucose is used in respiration. For Animal tissues, organs and organ systems, use carbohydrates to support the objective to explain how the products of digestion are used to build new carbohydrates, lipids and proteins, and how some glucose is used in respiration. Related approved keywords for this objective include products, digestion, used, build. This definition is deliberately scoped to The human digestive system, so it preserves this concept without merging it with neighbouring key terms.
1 topic link
carbohydrates
Organic compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, which are crucial for energy storage and supply in living organisms.
1 topic link
carbon
carbon is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe reducing deforestation and carbon dioxide emissions as methods of protecting biodiversity..
1 topic link
carbon cycle
carbon cycle is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe how the carbon cycle returns carbon from organisms to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide..
1 topic link
carbon cycle
carbon cycle is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Interpret diagrams of the carbon cycle..
1 topic link
carbon cycle
carbon cycle is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain processes shown in carbon cycle and water cycle diagrams..
1 topic link
carbon dioxide
carbon dioxide is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how carbon dioxide levels can affect plants..
1 topic link
carbon dioxide
In How materials are cycled, carbon dioxide means carbon dioxide is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe how the carbon cycle returns carbon from organisms to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide. This matters in Organisation of an ecosystem because it supports the learning objective to describe how the carbon cycle returns carbon from organisms to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide. Use carbon dioxide only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
carbon dioxide
carbon dioxide is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how plants take in carbon dioxide during photosynthesis..
1 topic link
carbon dioxide
carbon dioxide is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how peat decay or burning releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere..
1 topic link
carbon dioxide
In Land use, carbon dioxide means carbon dioxide is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Evaluate peat conservation in relation to biodiversity and carbon dioxide emissions. This matters in Biodiversity and the effect of human interaction on ecosystems because it supports the learning objective to evaluate peat conservation in relation to biodiversity and carbon dioxide emissions. Use carbon dioxide only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.
1 topic link
carbon dioxide
carbon dioxide is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how deforestation can contribute to increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere..
1 topic link
carbon dioxide
carbon dioxide is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Describe that carbon dioxide and methane levels in the atmosphere are increasing..
1 topic link
carbon dioxide
carbon dioxide is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain that increasing carbon dioxide and methane contribute to global warming..
1 topic link
carbon dioxide
carbon dioxide is a curriculum-aligned term linked to the learning objective: Explain how absorbed material is lost as waste, including carbon dioxide and water from respiration..
1 topic link