Bioplasm Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🦠
Add to dictionary

bioplasm

[baɪəˌplæzəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biological substance

Bioplasm refers to the living matter within a cell, including protoplasm and other organic materials. It is considered essential for the maintenance of life processes in organisms. The term highlights the dynamic, changing nature of the cellular environment where life functions occur.

Synonyms

cell substance, cytoplasm, protoplasm.

Examples of usage

  • The bioplasm in the plant cells is crucial for photosynthesis.
  • Researchers study bioplasm to understand cellular functions.
  • Bioplasm plays a vital role in the growth of microorganisms.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Bioplasm is essential in the field of biology for explaining how cells are structured and operate.
  • It contributes to the understanding of protoplasm, which is the living content of a cell surrounded by a plasma membrane.
  • Research into bioplasm aids in advancements in cellular biology, helping scientists develop treatments for various diseases.

History

  • In the early study of biology, researchers used the concept of bioplasm to explain life processes before understanding DNA and cellular mechanics.
  • Early biologists like Rudolf Virchow laid the groundwork for modern cellular biology, impacting later ideas about bioplasm.

Literature

  • Bioplasm appears in scientific literature to discuss vitality at the cellular level, symbolizing the essence of life.
  • Authors exploring life and death often reference bioplasm metaphorically to discuss themes of existence and consciousness.

Philosophy

  • The concept of bioplasm invites discussions about what constitutes life and how living matter is distinguished from non-living matter.
  • Philosophers may use bioplasm to explore ideas of vitality, identity, and the boundaries of life itself.

Origin of 'bioplasm'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'bio', Greek for life, and 'plasm', from the Greek 'plasma', meaning something molded or formed.
  • The term emerged in the late 19th century as scientists began to better understand cell structures.

The term 'bioplasm' is derived from the combination of 'bio-', meaning life, and 'plasm', which denotes something formed or molded, particularly the substance of a cell. The usage of the word can be traced back to early biological studies in the 19th century as scientists began to understand the complexities of cellular life. Notably, bioplasm was used to describe the living protoplasmic material that composes the cells of living organisms. It reflects the historical context in which biology was evolving as a science, emphasizing the importance of cellular structures and functions. Over time, the concept of bioplasm has been expanded and refined, leading to modern understandings of cytology and molecular biology.