18.2.1

3-Domain Classification System

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New Classification Systems

Technological advancements have led to new, more accurate classification systems.

Technological advancements

Technological advancements

  • New technologies have allowed extensive sequencing of the DNA and proteins of organisms.
  • More closely-related organisms have DNA with a more similar base sequence and proteins with a more similar amino acid sequence.
3-domain system

3-domain system

  • Carl Woese proposed the 3 domain system. This classifies organisms based on chemical analysis.
  • The 3 domains are:
    • Archaea - primitive bacteria.
    • Bacteria - true bacteria.
    • Eukaryota - organisms possessing complex sub-cellular structures (protists, fungi, plants & animals).
Viruses

Viruses

  • Viruses are not classified as living so they do not feature in the 3-domain system.
    • Viruses are not seen as living as they rely on other cells to reproduce and have no metabolism.
  • Virus classification is based on their:
    • Nucleic acid (DNA or RNA).
    • Whether these nucleic acids are single- or double-stranded.
Jump to other topics
1

Cell Structure

2

Biological Molecules

3

Enzymes

4

Cell Membranes & Transport

5

The Mitotic Cell Cycle

6

Nucleic Acids & Protein Synthesis

7

Transport in Plants

8

Transport in Mammals

9

Gas Exchange

10

Infectious Diseases

11

Immunity

12

Energy & Respiration (A2 Only)

13

Photosynthesis (A2 Only)

14

Homeostasis (A2 Only)

15

Control & Coordination (A2 Only)

16

Inherited Change (A2 Only)

17

Selection & Evolution (A2 Only)

18

Classification & Conservation (A2 Only)

19

Genetic Technology (A2 Only)

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