Biological Gradients and Tissue Types

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to biological gradients, tissue types, and physiological concepts.

Concentration gradient

A difference in the concentration of a substance across a space.

Osmotic pressure gradient

The pressure required to prevent the flow of a solvent across a semipermeable membrane, often due to differences in solute concentration.

Hydrostatic pressure

The pressure exerted by a fluid at equilibrium due to the force of gravity.

Tight junctions

Specialized connections between two adjacent cells that prevent the passage of molecules and ions through the space between them.

Gap junctions

Intercellular connections that allow direct communication between cells.

Epithelial tissue

A body tissue that covers surfaces, lines cavities, and forms glands.

Negative feedback

A control mechanism that reduces the output or activity of a system to maintain equilibrium.

Myosin

A type of motor protein involved in muscle contraction and other cellular processes.

Homeostasis

The ability of a living organism to maintain internal stability despite changes in the external environment.

Gastrovascular cavity

A digestive cavity with a single opening serving as both mouth and anus, commonly found in simpler animals.

Open circulation

A system where circulatory fluid is not always confined to vessels, such as in certain invertebrates.