Source: https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-3-4-pcr-and-gel-electrophoresis

[Revision notes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes.md) › [IB Diploma](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma.md) › [Biology](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology.md) › [Biology: IB Diploma](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma.md) › PCR & Gel Electrophoresis

# PCR & Gel Electrophoresis

Biology: IB Diploma Higher Level, topic 13.3.4

## Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

The polymerase chain reaction is used to amplify small amounts of DNA.

### Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)

![Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/2021-05/7315174a-9550-4bdc-8e38-72a99ec773f5/pcr.png)

- The polymerase chain reaction process enables us to take a small sample of DNA and produce many more copies of it, allowing for further analysis to take place.

### PCR 'ingredients'

![PCR 'ingredients'](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/2018-05/a4dc9c46-17a4-4e2b-a826-b1aae72f33f5/baking-soda-768950_1920.jpg)

- Several ‘ingredients’ are required for the PCR reaction:
 - DNA primers (sections of DNA about 20 base pairs long which are complementary to the ends of the target sequence of DNA that you wish to amplify).
 - Free nucleotides adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine.
 - Taq polymerase (a special polymerase enzyme extracted from bacteria that live in very hot environments such as hot springs, so that the enzyme will not denature at the temperatures used in the PCR).
 - The target sequence of DNA that is to be amplified.

### Thermal cycling

![Thermal cycling](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/2018-08/f418a04f-b5ac-4b1d-9300-6a96ee1157af/thermometer-3579034_1920.jpg)

- PCR is carried out in a thermocycler and involves a cycle of three steps at three different temperatures:
 - Denaturation at 95°C - DNA strands are separated by breaking the hydrogen bonds.
 - Annealing at 60°C - primers attach to complementary DNA by forming hydrogen bonds.
 - Elongation at 72°C - optimum temperature for Taq polymerase to add the free nucleotides to the exposed DNA strands.
- These three steps are then repeated 20-30 times in a typical PCR reaction to potentially produce over 1,000,000,000 copies of the target sequence of DNA.

## Gel Electrophoresis

Gel electrophoresis is used to separate proteins or fragments of DNA according to size. DNA profiling is a common application of gel electrophoresis.

### Gel electrophoresis

![Gel electrophoresis](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/2021-05/f370d582-3d58-4c04-84b7-b3992cb9edb8/gel%20electrophoresis.png)

- Gel electrophoresis involves adding samples of proteins or DNA fragments to a gel immersed in a chamber with an electric current running through it. 
- The current causes the charged particles to move through the gel as it is porous.
- The smaller particles can move through the gel more easily and therefore move further.

### Analysis

![Analysis](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/2021-05/a21ac4b0-ebca-4fe0-b733-2addc2584e49/gel%20electrophoresis-1.png)

- A banding pattern is formed which when compared to a reference can allow for the identification of specific proteins or DNA fragments.

### DNA profiling

![DNA profiling](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/2018-09/2acf5459-f97d-4548-9327-9859295a0e2a/police-crime-scene-.jpg)

- DNA profiling, also known as DNA fingerprinting, is used to compare samples of DNA.
- DNA profiling is commonly applied in forensic investigations and paternity testing.
- The process involves both PCR and gel electrophoresis.

### DNA profiling process

![DNA profiling process](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/2021-05/8cf05ef1-686d-4559-b451-175492a86c88/gel%20electrophoresis-3.png)

- Firstly, PCR is used to amplify what could be a very small sample of DNA.
- The amplified samples are then subjected to gel electrophoresis to compare them.
- The bars of DNA fragments that form in the gel are compared to another reference e.g. with other suspects or evidence.

## Test yourself on PCR & Gel Electrophoresis

- Which of these is NOT an ingredient required for the PCR reaction?
- Which of these is NOT a key step in the PCR reaction?
- Which of the following DNA fragments will move furthest through the gel in gel electrophoresis? The fragment length in number of base pairs (bp) is given.

[Practise this topic for free](https://app.senecalearning.com/classroom/course/549189f7-f13a-4c5c-b80c-ea1bd3036d78/section/021a4c43-b5c7-4065-967f-01ecbb284223/session)

- Previous topic: [13.3.3 DNA Technology](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-3-3-dna-technology.md)
- Next topic: [13.3.5 Genetic Modification](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-3-5-genetic-modification.md)

## Biology: IB Diploma Higher Level contents

### 1 Unity & Diversity - Molecules
- 1.1 Water
  - [1.1.1 The Importance of Water](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-1-1-the-importance-of-water.md)
  - [1.1.2 The Structure of Water](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-1-2-the-structure-of-water.md)
  - [1.1.3 The Properties of Water](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-1-3-the-properties-of-water.md)
  - [1.1.4 IB Multiple Choice - Water & Hydrogen Bonding](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-1-4-ib-multiple-choice-water-and-hydrogen-bonding.md)
  - [1.1.5 Extended Response - Water](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-1-5-extended-response-water.md)
- 1.2 DNA Structure & Replication
  - [1.2.1 DNA](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-2-1-dna.md)
  - [1.2.2 RNA](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-2-2-rna.md)
  - [1.2.3 Semi-Conservative DNA Replication](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-2-3-semi-conservative-dna-replication.md)
  - [1.2.4 DNA Replication](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-2-4-dna-replication.md)
  - [1.2.5 DNA Replication - Summary](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-2-5-dna-replication-summary.md)
  - [1.2.6 IB Multiple Choice -  DNA Replication](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-2-6-ib-multiple-choice-dna-replication.md)
- 1.3 Transcription & Gene Expression
  - [1.3.1 Introduction to Transcription & Protein Synthesis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-3-1-introduction-to-transcription-and-protein-synthesis.md)
  - [1.3.2 Types of RNA](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-3-2-types-of-rna.md)
  - [1.3.3 Transcription](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-3-3-transcription.md)
  - [1.3.4 RNA Processing in Eukaryotes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-3-4-rna-processing-in-eukaryotes.md)
  - [1.3.5 IB Multiple Choice - Transcription](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-3-5-ib-multiple-choice-transcription.md)
- 1.4 Translation
  - [1.4.1 Translation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-4-1-translation.md)
  - [1.4.2 Retroviruses](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-4-2-retroviruses.md)
  - [1.4.3 Scientific Practices: Coronavirus](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-4-3-scientific-practices-coronavirus.md)
  - [1.4.4 IB Multiple Choice - Translation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/1-4-4-ib-multiple-choice-translation.md)

### 2 Unity & Diversity - Cells
- 2.1 The Origin of Cells
  - [2.1.1 Origins - Endosymbiosis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-1-1-origins-endosymbiosis.md)
- 2.2 Introduction to Cells
  - [2.2.1 Introduction to Cells](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-2-1-introduction-to-cells.md)
  - [2.2.2 Cell Size & Surface Area](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-2-2-cell-size-and-surface-area.md)
  - [2.2.3 Surface Area to Volume Ratio](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-2-3-surface-area-to-volume-ratio.md)
  - [2.2.4 Eukaryotic vs Prokaryotic Cells](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-2-4-eukaryotic-vs-prokaryotic-cells.md)
  - [2.2.5 Stem Cells](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-2-5-stem-cells.md)
  - [2.2.6 Stem Cells in Disease](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-2-6-stem-cells-in-disease.md)
- 2.3 Ultrastructure of Cells
  - [2.3.1 Golgi, Lysosomes & Ribosomes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-3-1-golgi-lysosomes-and-ribosomes.md)
  - [2.3.2 Cell Walls & Vacuole](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-3-2-cell-walls-and-vacuole.md)
  - [2.3.3 Prokaryotes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-3-3-prokaryotes.md)
  - [2.3.4 Binary Fission](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-3-4-binary-fission.md)
- 2.4 Cell Division
  - [2.4.1 The Cell Cycle](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-4-1-the-cell-cycle.md)
  - [2.4.2 Mitosis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-4-2-mitosis.md)
  - [2.4.3 Regulation of the Cell Cycle](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-4-3-regulation-of-the-cell-cycle.md)
  - [2.4.4 End of Topic Quiz - The Cell Cycle](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-4-4-end-of-topic-quiz-the-cell-cycle.md)
  - [2.4.5 IB Multiple Choice - The Cell Cycle](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-4-5-ib-multiple-choice-the-cell-cycle.md)
  - [2.4.6 Extended Response - Mitosis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-4-6-extended-response-mitosis.md)
- 2.5 Structure of DNA & RNA
  - [2.5.1 DNA & RNA](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-5-1-dna-and-rna.md)
- 2.6 DNA Replication, Transcription & Translation
  - [2.6.1 Protein Synthesis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-6-1-protein-synthesis.md)
  - [2.6.2 Transcription & Translation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-6-2-transcription-and-translation.md)
  - [2.6.3 End of Topic Test - DNA, Genes & Protein Synthesis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-6-3-end-of-topic-test-dna-genes-and-protein-synthesis.md)
  - [2.6.4 Exam-Style Question - Protein Synthesis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-6-4-exam-style-question-protein-synthesis.md)
  - [2.6.5 End of Topic Test - Coronavirus Translation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-6-5-end-of-topic-test-coronavirus-translation.md)
  - [2.6.6 IB Multiple Choice - Transcription](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-6-6-ib-multiple-choice-transcription.md)
  - [2.6.7 IB Multiple Choice - Translation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-6-7-ib-multiple-choice-translation.md)
- 2.7 Cell Respiration
  - [2.7.1 Overview of Respiration](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-7-1-overview-of-respiration.md)
  - [2.7.2 Anaerobic Respiration](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-7-2-anaerobic-respiration.md)
  - [2.7.3 End of Topic Test - Anaerobic Respiration](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-7-3-end-of-topic-test-anaerobic-respiration.md)
  - [2.7.4 Respiration Experiments](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-7-4-respiration-experiments.md)
  - [2.7.5 End of Topic Test - Respiration](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-7-5-end-of-topic-test-respiration.md)
  - [2.7.6 IB Multiple Choice - Respiration](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-7-6-ib-multiple-choice-respiration.md)
- 2.8 Photosynthesis
  - [2.8.1 Overview of Photosynthesis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-8-1-overview-of-photosynthesis.md)
- 2.9 Viruses
  - [2.9.1 Viruses](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/2-9-1-viruses.md)

### 3 Unity & Diversity - Organisms
- 3.1 Diversity of Organisms
  - [3.1.1 Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-1-1-chromosomal-theory-of-inheritance.md)
  - [3.1.2 Chromosomal Basis of Inherited Disorders](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-1-2-chromosomal-basis-of-inherited-disorders.md)
  - [3.1.3 IB Multiple Choice - Chromosomal Inheritance](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-1-3-ib-multiple-choice-chromosomal-inheritance.md)
- 3.2 Evidence for Evolution
  - [3.2.1 Evidence for Evolution - Fossils & DNA](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-2-1-evidence-for-evolution-fossils-and-dna.md)
  - [3.2.2 Evidence for Evolution - Anatomy & Geography](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-2-2-evidence-for-evolution-anatomy-and-geography.md)
  - [3.2.3 IB Multiple Choice - Evidence for Evolution](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-2-3-ib-multiple-choice-evidence-for-evolution.md)
  - [3.2.4 Extended Response - DNA & Evolution](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-2-4-extended-response-dna-and-evolution.md)
- 3.3 Natural Selection
  - [3.3.1 Introduction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-3-1-introduction.md)
  - [3.3.2 Evolutionary Fitness](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-3-2-evolutionary-fitness.md)
  - [3.3.3 Natural Selection & Variation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-3-3-natural-selection-and-variation.md)
  - [3.3.4 End of Topic Quiz - Natural Selection](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-3-4-end-of-topic-quiz-natural-selection.md)
  - [3.3.5 IB Multiple Choice - Natural Selection](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-3-5-ib-multiple-choice-natural-selection.md)
  - [3.3.6 Speciation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/3-3-6-speciation.md)

### 4 Unity & Diversity - Ecosystems
- 4.1 Classification
  - [4.1.1 Introduction to Biodiversity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-1-1-introduction-to-biodiversity.md)
  - [4.1.2 Keystone Species](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-1-2-keystone-species.md)
  - [4.1.3 Courtship & Ancestry](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-1-3-courtship-and-ancestry.md)
  - [4.1.4 Classification](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-1-4-classification.md)
- 4.2 Cladistics
  - [4.2.1 Evolutionary Relationships](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-2-1-evolutionary-relationships.md)
  - [4.2.2 IB Multiple Choice - Species & Taxonomy](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-2-2-ib-multiple-choice-species-and-taxonomy.md)
- 4.3 Evolution & Speciation
  - [4.3.1 Evidence for Evolution - Fossils & DNA](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-3-1-evidence-for-evolution-fossils-and-dna.md)
  - [4.3.2 Evidence for Evolution - Anatomy & Geography](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-3-2-evidence-for-evolution-anatomy-and-geography.md)
  - [4.3.3 IB Multiple Choice - Evidence for Evolution](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-3-3-ib-multiple-choice-evidence-for-evolution.md)
  - [4.3.4 Extended Response - DNA & Evolution](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-3-4-extended-response-dna-and-evolution.md)
  - [4.3.5 Populations](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-3-5-populations.md)
  - [4.3.6 Mutations, Genetic Drift, & Gene Flow](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-3-6-mutations-genetic-drift-and-gene-flow.md)
  - [4.3.7 Speciation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-3-7-speciation.md)
  - [4.3.8 Rate of Speciation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-3-8-rate-of-speciation.md)
  - [4.3.9 Allopatric & Sympatric Speciation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-3-9-allopatric-and-sympatric-speciation.md)
- 4.4 Conservation of Biodiversity
  - [4.4.1 Coming Soon!](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/4-4-1-coming-soon.md)

### 5 Form & Function - Molecules
- 5.1 Carbohydrates & Lipids
  - [5.1.1 Monosaccharides](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/5-1-1-monosaccharides.md)
  - [5.1.2 Disaccharides & Polysaccharides](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/5-1-2-disaccharides-and-polysaccharides.md)
  - [5.1.3 Triglycerides & Phospholipids](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/5-1-3-triglycerides-and-phospholipids.md)
  - [5.1.4 Cellulose](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/5-1-4-cellulose.md)
  - [5.1.5 Starch & Glycogen](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/5-1-5-starch-and-glycogen.md)
- 5.2 Proteins
  - [5.2.1 Structure & Functions of Proteins](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/5-2-1-structure-and-functions-of-proteins.md)

### 6 Form & Function - Cells
- 6.1 Membranes & Membrane Transport
  - [6.1.1 Passive Movement Across Membranes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/6-1-1-passive-movement-across-membranes.md)
  - [6.1.2 Active Movement Across Membranes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/6-1-2-active-movement-across-membranes.md)
  - [6.1.3 Endocytosis & Exocystosis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/6-1-3-endocytosis-and-exocystosis.md)
  - [6.1.4 Cell Membrane Structure & Permeability](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/6-1-4-cell-membrane-structure-and-permeability.md)
- 6.2 Organelles & Compartmentalization
  - [6.2.1 Eukaryotic Cells & Organelles](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/6-2-1-eukaryotic-cells-and-organelles.md)
  - [6.2.2 Subcellular Components & Organelles](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/6-2-2-subcellular-components-and-organelles.md)
- 6.3 Cell Specialization
  - [6.3.1 Cell Specialization](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/6-3-1-cell-specialization.md)

### 7 Form & Function - Organisms
- 7.1 Gas Exchange
  - [7.1.1 Lung Structure & Alveoli](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-1-1-lung-structure-and-alveoli.md)
  - [7.1.2 Ventilation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-1-2-ventilation.md)
  - [7.1.3 Lung Disease](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-1-3-lung-disease.md)
  - [7.1.4 Lung Disease Data](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-1-4-lung-disease-data.md)
- 7.2 Transport
  - [7.2.1 The Circulatory System](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-2-1-the-circulatory-system.md)
  - [7.2.2 The Heart](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-2-2-the-heart.md)
  - [7.2.3 Blood Vessels](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-2-3-blood-vessels.md)
  - [7.2.4 Cardiovascular Disease](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-2-4-cardiovascular-disease.md)
  - [7.2.5 Xylem Structure](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-2-5-xylem-structure.md)
  - [7.2.6 Cohesion-Tension Theory](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-2-6-cohesion-tension-theory.md)
  - [7.2.7 Investigating Transpiration Rate](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-2-7-investigating-transpiration-rate.md)
  - [7.2.8 Phloem Structure](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-2-8-phloem-structure.md)
  - [7.2.9 Translocation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-2-9-translocation.md)
- 7.3 Muscle & Motility
  - [7.3.1 Skeletal Muscle](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-3-1-skeletal-muscle.md)
  - [7.3.2 Sliding Filament Theory](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-3-2-sliding-filament-theory.md)
  - [7.3.3 Contraction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/7-3-3-contraction.md)

### 8 Form & Function - Ecosystems
- 8.1 Species, Communities & Ecosytems
  - [8.1.1 Population Dynamics](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-1-1-population-dynamics.md)
  - [8.1.2 Communities & Measuring Diversity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-1-2-communities-and-measuring-diversity.md)
  - [8.1.3 Relationships Between Populations](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-1-3-relationships-between-populations.md)
  - [8.1.4 Overview of Ecosystems](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-1-4-overview-of-ecosystems.md)
  - [8.1.5 Nutrient Cycles](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-1-5-nutrient-cycles.md)
  - [8.1.6 Fertilisers](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-1-6-fertilisers.md)
  - [8.1.7 Eutrophication](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-1-7-eutrophication.md)
  - [8.1.8 Chi-Squared Test](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-1-8-chi-squared-test.md)
- 8.2 Energy Flow
  - [8.2.1 Energy](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-2-1-energy.md)
  - [8.2.2 Energy Flow](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-2-2-energy-flow.md)
  - [8.2.3 Biomass & Food Chains](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-2-3-biomass-and-food-chains.md)
  - [8.2.4 Heterotrophs & Autotrophs](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-2-4-heterotrophs-and-autotrophs.md)
- 8.3 Carbon Cycle
  - [8.3.1 Carbon Cycle](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-3-1-carbon-cycle.md)
- 8.4 Climate Change
  - [8.4.1 Carbon Dioxide](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-4-1-carbon-dioxide.md)
  - [8.4.2 The Greenhouse Effect](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-4-2-the-greenhouse-effect.md)
  - [8.4.3 Global Warming](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-4-3-global-warming.md)
  - [8.4.4 Maintaining Biodiversity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/8-4-4-maintaining-biodiversity.md)

### 9 Interaction & Interdependence - Molecules
- 9.1 Enzymes
  - [9.1.1 Enzymes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-1-1-enzymes.md)
  - [9.1.2 Factors Affecting Enzyme Activity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-1-2-factors-affecting-enzyme-activity.md)
  - [9.1.3 Enzyme-Controlled Reactions](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-1-3-enzyme-controlled-reactions.md)
  - [9.1.4 End of Topic Test - Enzymes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-1-4-end-of-topic-test-enzymes.md)
- 9.2 Metabolism
  - [9.2.1 Molecules to Metabolism](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-2-1-molecules-to-metabolism.md)
- 9.3 Cell Respiration
  - [9.3.1 Glycolysis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-3-1-glycolysis.md)
  - [9.3.2 Aerobic Respiration](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-3-2-aerobic-respiration.md)
- 9.4 Photosynthesis
  - [9.4.1 Light-Dependent Reaction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-4-1-light-dependent-reaction.md)
  - [9.4.2 Light-Independent Reaction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-4-2-light-independent-reaction.md)
  - [9.4.3 End of Topic Test - Photosynthesis Reactions](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-4-3-end-of-topic-test-photosynthesis-reactions.md)
  - [9.4.4 Limiting Factors](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-4-4-limiting-factors.md)
  - [9.4.5 Photosynthesis Experiments](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-4-5-photosynthesis-experiments.md)
  - [9.4.6 End of Topic Test - Photosynthesis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-4-6-end-of-topic-test-photosynthesis.md)
  - [9.4.7 End of Topic Test - Photosynthesis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/9-4-7-end-of-topic-test-photosynthesis.md)

### 10 Interaction & Interdependence - Cells
- 10.1 Chemical Signalling
  - [10.1.1 Coming Soon!](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-1-1-coming-soon.md)
- 10.2 Neural Signalling
  - [10.2.1 Medical Application](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-2-1-medical-application.md)
  - [10.2.2 Speed of Transmission](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-2-2-speed-of-transmission.md)
  - [10.2.3 Synapses](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-2-3-synapses.md)
  - [10.2.4 End of Topic Test - Nervous Comm&Coord](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-2-4-end-of-topic-test-nervous-commandcoord.md)
  - [10.2.5 Neuron Structure](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-2-5-neuron-structure.md)
  - [10.2.6 Types of Synapse](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-2-6-types-of-synapse.md)
  - [10.2.7 End of Topic Test - Neurones & Action Potentials](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-2-7-end-of-topic-test-neurones-and-action-potentials.md)
  - [10.2.8 Transmission of an Impulse](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-2-8-transmission-of-an-impulse.md)
  - [10.2.9 End of Topic Test - Synapses](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-2-9-end-of-topic-test-synapses.md)
- 10.3 Adaptation to Environment
  - [10.3.1 Coming Soon!](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-3-1-coming-soon.md)
- 10.4 Ecological Niches
  - [10.4.1 Coming Soon!](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/10-4-1-coming-soon.md)

### 11 Interaction & Interdependence - Organisms
- 11.1 Integration of Body Systems
  - [11.1.1 Plant Tropisms](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/11-1-1-plant-tropisms.md)
- 11.2 Defence Against Disease
  - [11.2.1 Immune System](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/11-2-1-immune-system.md)
  - [11.2.2 The Immune Response](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/11-2-2-the-immune-response.md)
  - [11.2.3 Antibodies](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/11-2-3-antibodies.md)
  - [11.2.4 Primary & Secondary Response](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/11-2-4-primary-and-secondary-response.md)
  - [11.2.5 Vaccines](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/11-2-5-vaccines.md)
  - [11.2.6 HIV](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/11-2-6-hiv.md)
  - [11.2.7 End of Topic Test - Immune System](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/11-2-7-end-of-topic-test-immune-system.md)

### 12 Interaction & Interdependence - Ecosystems
- 12.1 Populations & Communities
  - [12.1.1 Coming Soon!](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/12-1-1-coming-soon.md)
- 12.2 Transfers of Energy & Matter
  - [12.2.1 Coming Soon!](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/12-2-1-coming-soon.md)

### 13 Continuity & Change - Molecules
- 13.1 DNA Replication
  - [13.1.1 DNA Replication](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-1-1-dna-replication.md)
- 13.2 Protein Synthesis
  - [13.2.1 Protein Synthesis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-2-1-protein-synthesis.md)
  - [13.2.2 Transcription & Translation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-2-2-transcription-and-translation.md)
  - [13.2.3 End of Topic Test - DNA, Genes & Protein Synthesis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-2-3-end-of-topic-test-dna-genes-and-protein-synthesis.md)
- 13.3 Mutation & Gene Editing
  - [13.3.1 Genes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-3-1-genes.md)
  - [13.3.2 Mutations](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-3-2-mutations.md)
  - [13.3.3 DNA Technology](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-3-3-dna-technology.md)
  - [13.3.4 PCR & Gel Electrophoresis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-3-4-pcr-and-gel-electrophoresis.md)
  - [13.3.5 Genetic Modification](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-3-5-genetic-modification.md)
  - [13.3.6 Cloning](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/13-3-6-cloning.md)

### 14 Continuity & Change - Cells
- 14.1 Gene Expression
  - [14.1.1 Introduction to Transcription & Protein Synthesis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/14-1-1-introduction-to-transcription-and-protein-synthesis.md)
  - [14.1.2 Types of RNA](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/14-1-2-types-of-rna.md)
  - [14.1.3 Transcription](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/14-1-3-transcription.md)
  - [14.1.4 RNA Processing in Eukaryotes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/14-1-4-rna-processing-in-eukaryotes.md)
  - [14.1.5 IB Multiple Choice - Transcription](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/14-1-5-ib-multiple-choice-transcription.md)
- 14.2 Water Potential
  - [14.2.1 Controlling Blood Water Potential](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/14-2-1-controlling-blood-water-potential.md)

### 15 Continuity & Change - Organisms
- 15.1 Inheritance
  - [15.1.1 Non-Nuclear Inheritance](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-1-1-non-nuclear-inheritance.md)
  - [15.1.2 Linked Genes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-1-2-linked-genes.md)
  - [15.1.3 IB Multiple Choice - Non-Mendelian Genetics](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-1-3-ib-multiple-choice-non-mendelian-genetics.md)
  - [15.1.4 Extended Response - Inheritance](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-1-4-extended-response-inheritance.md)
  - [15.1.5 Introduction to Non-Mendelian Inheritance](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-1-5-introduction-to-non-mendelian-inheritance.md)
  - [15.1.6 Chi-Squared Test](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-1-6-chi-squared-test.md)
  - [15.1.7 End of Topic Quiz - Inheritance](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-1-7-end-of-topic-quiz-inheritance.md)
  - [15.1.8 Sex-Linked Genes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-1-8-sex-linked-genes.md)
  - [15.1.9 Grade 4-5 (Scientific Practices) - Inheritance](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-1-9-grade-4-5-scientific-practices-inheritance.md)
- 15.2 Homeostasis
  - [15.2.1 Overview of Homeostasis](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-2-1-overview-of-homeostasis.md)
  - [15.2.2 Blood Glucose Concentration](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-2-2-blood-glucose-concentration.md)
  - [15.2.3 Controlling Blood Glucose Concentration](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-2-3-controlling-blood-glucose-concentration.md)
  - [15.2.4 End of Topic Test - Blood Glucose](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-2-4-end-of-topic-test-blood-glucose.md)
  - [15.2.5 Type I & Type II Diabetes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-2-5-type-i-and-type-ii-diabetes.md)
  - [15.2.6 Human Reproductive Systems](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-2-6-human-reproductive-systems.md)
  - [15.2.7 Hormonal Control of the Menstrual Cycle](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-2-7-hormonal-control-of-the-menstrual-cycle.md)
  - [15.2.8 Kidneys & Osmoregulation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/15-2-8-kidneys-and-osmoregulation.md)

### 16 Continuity & Change - Ecosystems
- 16.1 Natural Selection
  - [16.1.1 Natural Selection](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/16-1-1-natural-selection.md)
- 16.2 Stability & Change
  - [16.2.1 Coming Soon!](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/16-2-1-coming-soon.md)
- 16.3 Climate Change
  - [16.3.1 Carbon Dioxide](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/16-3-1-carbon-dioxide.md)
  - [16.3.2 The Greenhouse Effect](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/16-3-2-the-greenhouse-effect.md)
  - [16.3.3 Global Warming](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/16-3-3-global-warming.md)
  - [16.3.4 Maintaining Biodiversity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/ib-diploma/biology/biology-ib-diploma/16-3-4-maintaining-biodiversity.md)