Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology

These flashcards summarize key terminology and concepts from the first unit of human anatomy and physiology, providing definitions that are essential for understanding this scientific field.

Anatomy

The branch of science that deals with the structure of body parts; their forms and how they are organized.

Physiology

The branch of science that studies the functions of body parts; how they work and how they function.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment within an organism.

Metabolism

The sum total of all chemical reactions in the body that break substances down and build them up.

Viscera

The organs located within the body cavities.

Organ System

A group of organs that work together to perform complex functions necessary for life.

Receptors (in homeostasis)

Structures that provide information about specific conditions (stimuli) in the internal environment.

Effectors (in homeostasis)

Muscles or glands that cause responses to restore balance in the body's internal environment.

Negative Feedback

A mechanism that counteracts a deviation from a set point to maintain stability.

Positive Feedback

A process that amplifies change, moving conditions away from the normal state.

Appendicular Portion

The part of the body that includes the limbs.

Axial Portion

The part of the body that includes the head, neck, and trunk.

Pelvic Cavity

The basin-shaped cavity enclosed by the pelvic bones, containing the lower parts of the digestive and reproductive systems.

Thoracic Cavity

The chamber of the body that houses the lungs and heart.

Cranial Cavity

The cavity that houses the brain.

Dorsal

Referring to the back side of the body.

Ventral (Anterior)

Referring to the front side of the body.

Medial

Closer to the midline of the body.

Lateral

Farther away from the midline of the body.

Superior

Above another part; closer to the head.

Inferior

Below another part; closer to the feet.

Proximal

Closer to the point of attachment of a limb to the body trunk.

Distal

Farther from the point of attachment of a limb to the body trunk.