Biology: Life on Earth with Physiology, Global Edition, 12th edition

Published by Pearson (22 July 2026) © 2027

  • Gerald Audesirk University of Colorado, Denver
  • Teresa Audesirk University of Colorado, Denver
  • Bruce E. Byers University of Massachusetts, Amherst
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  • Learn with videos and interactives*
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Products list

Access details

  • Instant access once purchased
  • Offline access via app

Features

  • Learn with videos and interactives*
  • Highlight-to-translate in 100+ languages
  • Practice with quizzes and flashcards
  • AI-powered study support*

*Available for some titles

Title overview

Biology shapes our understanding of the living world, from the smallest cells to complex ecosystems. Biology: Life on Earth introduces students to the fundamental principles of biology through engaging real-world examples, relevant case studies and a conversational approach that makes scientific concepts accessible and meaningful. Designed for non-majors and mixed biology courses, it helps learners develop scientific literacy while building an appreciation for how biology influences everyday life.

Throughout the text, students are encouraged to think critically, ask questions and explore the process of scientific discovery. Real-world applications, inquiry-based activities and opportunities for reflection help learners connect biological concepts to contemporary issues in health, biodiversity, evolution and the environment. By emphasising both biological knowledge and scientific thinking, this resource supports students in becoming informed citizens and confident consumers of scientific information.

Who It's For

Ideal for students enrolled in non-major or mixed biology courses who want to build scientific literacy, understand core biological concepts and explore the role of biology in everyday life.

 

Table of contents

  1. An Introduction to Life on Earth
  • UNIT 1: THE LIFE OF THE CELL
    1. Atoms, Molecules, and Life
    2. Biological Molecules
    3. Cell Structure and Function
    4. Cell Membrane Structure and Function
    5. Energy Flow in the Life of a Cell
    6. Capturing Solar Energy: Photosynthesis
    7. Harvesting Energy: Glycolysis and Cellular Respiration
  • UNIT 2: INHERITANCE
    1. Cellular Reproduction
    2. Meiosis: The Basis of Sexual Reproduction
    3. Patterns of Inheritance
    4. DNA: The Molecule of Heredity
    5. Gene Expression and Regulation
    6. Biotechnology
  • UNIT 3: EVOLUTION AND DIVERSITY OF LIFE
    1. Principles of Evolution
    2. How Populations Evolve
    3. The Origin of Species
    4. The History of Life
    5. Systematics: Seeking Order Amid Diversity
    6. The Diversity of Prokaryotes and Viruses
    7. The Diversity of Protists
    8. The Diversity of Plants
    9. The Diversity of Fungi
    10. Animal Diversity I: Invertebrates
    11. Animal Diversity II: Vertebrates
  • UNIT 4: BEHAVIOR AND ECOLOGY
    1. Animal Behavior
    2. Population Growth and Regulation
    3. Community Interactions
    4. Energy Flow and Nutrient Cycling in Ecosystems
    5. Earth's Diverse Ecosystems
    6. Conserving Earth's Biodiversity
  • UNIT 5: ANIMAL ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
    1. Homeostasis and the Organization of the Animal Body
    2. Circulation
    3. Respiration
    4. Nutrition and Digestion
    5. The Urinary System
    6. Defenses Against Disease
    7. Chemical Control of the Animal Body: The Endocrine System
    8. The Nervous System
    9. The Senses
    10. Action and Support: The Muscles and Skeleton
    11. Animal Reproduction
    12. Animal Development
  • UNIT 6: PLANT ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
    1. Plant Anatomy and Nutrient Transport
    2. Plant Reproduction and Development
    3. Plant Responses to the Environment
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