Anatomy and Physiology - The Basics

Atoms

Smallest unit of the human body

Cells

Smallest units of living things

Tissues

Groups of cells with a common structure and function.

Organs

Groups of tissues that work together to perform a specific function or related functions

Organ Systems

A group of organs that work together in performing vital body functions.

Homeostasis

A tendency to maintain a balanced or constant internal state; the regulation of any aspect of body chemistry

Sagittal (Median) Plane

Parasagittal Plane

Coronal (frontal) Plane

transverse (horizontal) plane

Axial parts

Appendicular parts

Anterior (ventral)

front of the body

Posterior (dorsal)

back of body

Superior (cranial)

toward the head

Inferior (caudal)

away from the head

Medial

toward the midline

Lateral

away from the midline

Proximal

Nearer to the trunk of the body

Distal

Farther from the trunk of the body