ScienceJuly 17, 2026

ontology

/ɒnˈtɒlədʒi/

Definition

A structured, standardized framework for describing the properties and relationships of biological or physical entities within a specific domain.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'ont-' meaning 'being' and '-logia' meaning 'study of.' It was originally a philosophical term for the study of existence before being adopted by computer science and biology to describe formal classification systems.

In the news

In the article, researchers used a 'Gene Ontology' analysis to categorize and compare the genetic activity of shrimp, helping them determine which biological processes were affected by microgravity.

Scientists are Teaching Shrimp to Eat in Microgravity for Future Moon Bases

Read the full article ↗

Universe Today

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