Human Structure and Function - Week 1

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from the first week of the Human Structure and Function course.

Anatomy

The branch of science that investigates the structure of living organisms.

Gross Anatomy

Anatomy that is large enough to be seen without the aid of a microscope; also known as macroscopic anatomy.

Systemic Anatomy

The study of the human body system by system.

Regional Anatomy

The study of the body region by region.

Microscopic Anatomy

Anatomy that requires a microscope for study, including cytology and histology.

Homeostasis

The existence and maintenance of a relatively constant environment inside the human body.

Metabolism

The ability to use energy to perform vital functions, involving all the chemical reactions in the body.

Developmental Anatomy

The study of structural changes that occur in the body throughout the lifespan.

Histology

The study of tissues, examining their structure and function under a microscope.

Cytology

The study of cells and their contents.

Chemical Level

The level of organization in the body involving atoms and molecules.

Cellular Level

The level of organization where molecules combine to form organelles inside a cell.

Tissue Level

The level of organization where similar cell types and their surrounding materials join to form a tissue.

Organ Level

The level of organization where two or more tissue types form an organ.

Organ System Level

The level of organization where organs perform a common function, making up a system.

Organism Level

The level of organization that is a living thing considered as a whole.

Characteristics of Life

The six essential characteristics that define life: organization, metabolism, responsiveness, growth, development, and reproduction.

Negative Feedback

A mechanism that counteracts deviations from a set point to maintain homeostasis.

Positive Feedback

A mechanism that amplifies a deviation from the set point.

Learning Objectives

Goals set each week to guide student learning and understanding of course content.

Unit Outline

A comprehensive document that details the course syllabus, assessments, and relevant information for a unit.

Blackboard

An online platform used for academic resources and announcements in the course.

Curtin University

The institution where the Human Structure and Function course is being taught.