GRE Subject Test: Biology

This subject covers the key concepts and topics tested in the GRE Subject Test for Biology, including cellular biology, genetics, and ecology.

Cell Structure and FunctionMolecular GeneticsPrinciples of Ecology
Cellular Metabolism and BioenergeticsGenetic Inheritance and Mendelian LawsPopulation Dynamics and Evolution
Biotechnology in MedicineEcology and Environmental ConservationGenetic Testing and Personalized Medicine
Time Management for the GRE Biology TestActive Recall and Practice TestingBreaking Down Complex Questions
Cell Structure and F...Molecular GeneticsPrinciples of Ecolog...Cellular Metabolism ...Genetic Inheritance ...Population Dynamics ...Biotechnology in Med...Ecology and Environm...Genetic Testing and ...Time Management for ...Active Recall and Pr...Breaking Down Comple...
Advanced Topics

Cellular Metabolism and Bioenergetics

How Cells Get and Use Energy

All cells need energy to live, grow, and reproduce. Metabolism is the set of life-sustaining chemical transformations inside cells.

Major Metabolic Pathways

  • Glycolysis: Breaking down glucose for energy
  • Krebs Cycle (Citric Acid Cycle): Produces electron carriers for energy extraction
  • Electron Transport Chain: Where most ATP is made

The key formula for cellular respiration is:

\[ \text{C}6\text{H}{12}\text{O}_6 + 6\text{O}_2 \rightarrow 6\text{CO}_2 + 6\text{H}_2\text{O} + \text{Energy (ATP)} \]

Why It Matters

Metabolism explains how we turn food into energy and how disruptions can lead to diseases like diabetes.

Fun Twist

Plants use photosynthesis—the reverse of respiration—to make their own food from sunlight!

Key Formula

\[C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + \text{ATP}\]

Examples

  • Athletes 'carb-load' to store energy for endurance events.

  • Mitochondrial diseases affect energy production in cells.

In a Nutshell

Metabolism is how cells convert food into usable energy to power all life processes.

Key Terms

ATP
Adenosine triphosphate, the main energy currency of the cell.
Photosynthesis
The process by which plants use sunlight to make food.
Next
Genetic Inheritance and Mendelian Laws