Which is the best definition of biology?
A. The science of living organisms.
B. The study of humans and animals.
C. The study of plants, humans, and animals.
D. The science of life.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The best definition of biology is:
D. The science of life.
Explanation:
Biology is a broad scientific discipline that studies all aspects of life and living organisms. The phrase “the science of life” captures the essence of what biology encompasses because it includes everything related to living things, from the tiniest microorganisms to the largest animals and plants, as well as their interactions, functions, origins, and evolution.
Let’s look at why the other options are less accurate:
- A. The science of living organisms.
This is close but somewhat limited. It emphasizes “organisms,” which generally means individual living entities like animals, plants, and microbes. However, biology also studies life at different levels such as cells, molecules, ecosystems, and evolutionary processes, not just organisms in isolation. - B. The study of humans and animals.
This is too narrow. Biology includes humans and animals but also plants, fungi, bacteria, protists, and all other forms of life. Focusing only on humans and animals excludes large parts of biological study. - C. The study of plants, humans, and animals.
This is broader than option B but still incomplete. It leaves out microorganisms and other important life forms, like fungi and protists, which are essential parts of biology.
Why “The science of life” is best:
Biology is the scientific study of life and living processes. It covers a vast range of topics including genetics, ecology, evolution, anatomy, physiology, molecular biology, and more. By calling biology “the science of life,” we acknowledge the study of all living things and their vital processes, no matter how big or small, simple or complex.
This broad definition also allows biology to integrate many specialized fields and apply its principles to medicine, agriculture, environmental science, and biotechnology, reflecting the full scope of what the discipline encompasses.
In summary, biology is not just about specific groups of organisms or parts of life but the entire phenomenon of life itself, which is why the definition “the science of life” is the most accurate and inclusive.