Biology for dummies : [learn to: identify and dissect the many structures and functions of plants and animals, grasp the latest discoveries in evolutionary, reproductive, and ecological biology, think like a biologist and use scientific methods

An updated edition of the ultimate guide to understanding biology Ever wondered how the food you eat becomes the energy your body needs to keep going? The theory of evolution says that humans and chimps descended from a common ancestor, but does it tell us how and why? We humans are insatiably curious creatures who can't help wondering how things work — starting with our own bodies. Wouldn't it be great to have a single source of quick answers to all our questions about how living things work? Now there is. From molecules to animals, cells to ecosystems, Biology For Dummies, 2nd Edition answers all your questions about how living things work. Written in plain English and packed with dozens of illustrations, quick-reference Cheat Sheets, and helpful tables and diagrams, it cuts right to the chase with fast-paced, easy-to-absorb explanations of the life processes common to all organisms. More than 20% new and updated content, including a substantial overhaul to the organization of topics to make it a friendly classroom supplement Coverage of the most recent developments and discoveries in evolutionary, reproductive, and ecological biology Includes practical, up-to-date examples Whether you're currently enrolled in a biology class or just want to know more about this fascinating and ever-evolving field of study, this engaging guide will give you a grip on complex biology concepts and unlock the mysteries of how life works in no time. An introduction to biology that features illustrations, tables, diagrams, and easy-to-follow explanations covering cells, life processes, cell reproduction, DNA, ecology, evolution, and other related topics Explains basic concepts of the biological sciences including how cells acquire energy, metabolism, reproduction, evolution, ecology, and ecosystems.