A&P Multiple-Choice Review – Key Vocabulary

Twelve vocabulary flashcards summarizing the core cardiovascular, hematologic, immune, and respiratory terms highlighted in the multiple-choice review.

Baroreceptor

A pressure-sensitive sensory receptor that detects changes in arterial blood pressure and helps regulate cardiovascular homeostasis.

Tunica Intima

The innermost, endothelial layer of a blood vessel that provides a smooth surface for blood flow.

Artery

A blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart toward the tissues of the body.

Erythrocyte

A red blood cell whose primary function is to transport oxygen (and some carbon dioxide) via hemoglobin.

Red Blood Cell Lifespan

The average functional life of an erythrocyte in circulation—approximately 120 days.

Albumin

The most abundant plasma protein; it maintains colloid osmotic pressure and transports various substances in the blood.

B Cell

A lymphocyte that differentiates into plasma cells to produce and secrete antibodies for humoral immunity.

Spleen

A lymphatic organ that filters blood, removes aged or damaged red blood cells, and mounts immune responses.

Complement System

A cascade of plasma proteins that enhances ("complements") innate and adaptive immune responses, promoting pathogen lysis, opsonization, and inflammation.

Diaphragm

The primary skeletal muscle of inspiration; its contraction increases thoracic volume and decreases intrathoracic pressure.

Alveolus (Alveoli)

A microscopic air sac in the lungs where gas exchange between air and blood occurs.

Boyle’s Law

A gas law stating that at constant temperature, the pressure of a gas varies inversely with its volume (P ∝ 1/V).