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Biology Terminologies: Prefix and Suffix Quick Review Notes

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Biology Terminologies - Prefix and Suffix (Quick Review Notes)

by William Pitts

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	152 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	33 pages
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Biology is a vast and complex field, and its vocabulary can be daunting to students. However, by understanding the prefixes and suffixes used in biological terms, you can greatly improve your ability to decipher and comprehend scientific literature.

Prefixes

Prefixes are added to the beginning of words to change their meaning. In biology, prefixes are often used to indicate the size, shape, or function of a structure.

Prefix	Meaning	Examples
a-	without	asexual, amorphic
anti-	against	antibiotic, antibody
co-	together	coenzyme, coevolution
de-	down	decrease, denature
endo-	within	endocrine, endocytosis
epi-	upon	epidermis, epinephrine
exo-	outside	exoskeleton, exocytosis
hyper-	excessive	hypertension, hyperglycemia
hypo-	deficient	hypotension, hypoglycemia

Suffixes

Suffixes are added to the end of words to change their meaning. In biology, suffixes are often used to indicate the structure, function, or role of a molecule.

Suffix	Meaning	Examples
-ase	enzyme	amylase, protease
-cyte	cell	erythrocyte, lymphocyte
-in	protein	insulin, hemoglobin
-itis	inflammation	dermatitis, gastritis
-oma	tumor	carcinoma, melanoma
-osis	process	mitosis, photosynthesis
-phage	eater	bacteriophage, macrophage
-phore	carrier	chromophore, ionophore
-plasm	substance	cytoplasm, protoplasm

By understanding the prefixes and suffixes used in biology, you can greatly improve your ability to understand scientific literature and communicate with other biologists. These quick review notes provide a concise overview of the most common prefixes and suffixes, so you can start using them confidently today.

Bonus Tip: Practice makes perfect! The best way to improve your understanding of biology terminologies is to practice using them. Try reading scientific articles or textbooks and identifying the prefixes and suffixes used in the terms. You can also practice writing your own scientific terms using the prefixes and suffixes you've learned.

Biology Terminologies - Prefix and Suffix (Quick Review Notes)

by William Pitts

4 out of 5