Ep 3. Week 3
- September 9, 2009
- 45 min
Crash Course is a popular web series on YouTube that provides a comprehensive crash course in various subjects. Season 1, episode 3 of the show is titled "Week 3" and is part of the Anatomy and Physiology series.
In this episode, the presenter, Hank Green, dives deeper into the study of basic biochemistry, cells, and cell transport mechanisms. The lesson begins with an introduction to the fundamental building blocks of life - atoms, and molecules. The viewers learn about the characteristics of atoms, their protons, neutrons, and electrons, and how they combine to form the molecules that make up living organisms.
Next, the presenter takes us through the structure and function of cells and how they are classified into two categories based on essential differences: prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The episode explains the various parts of each type of cell and how they work together to keep the organism alive.
Furthermore, the episode explores the various methods of cellular transport such as passive transport, facilitated transport, and active transport. Hank shares how important these transport mechanisms are for cells, as they allow for the exchange of nutrients and remove waste.
The episode then discusses osmosis and diffusion, critical aspects of passive transport, and how they work. The presenter also emphasizes the concept of concentration gradient and how it influences these transport mechanisms.
After that, Hank Green delves into energy, enzymes, and metabolism. The episode explains how living organisms use energy to perform activities and the role of enzymes in catalyzing chemical reactions. Through the simple analogy of a lock and key, the presenter simplifies how enzymes work, which helps retain the viewer's attention.
The final part of the episode introduces cellular respiration, the process by which cells convert glucose into ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate), the power currency of cells. The presenter explains ATP production's chemical formula, its yield, and how it works in the cell.
Through creative illustrations, engaging animations, and simple language, Hank Green makes the complex topic of basic biochemistry and cellular physiology easy to understand. The seasoned presenter structures the episode in a manner that makes it easier for the viewers to follow and apply the concepts presented throughout the episode.
In conclusion, if you want to learn about basic biochemistry, cells, and cell transport mechanisms, this episode of Crash Course is for you. After watching the episode, viewers will better understand how the fundamental building blocks of life work together to keep the organism alive. They will also comprehend the different types of cells, their parts and function, and how cells move in and out of them. Overall, the "Week 3" episode is a perfect addition to the Crash Course series and an excellent resource for anyone looking to explore the basics of biology.