Chapter 01 Part A: The Human Body — Orientation (Vocabulary Flashcards)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions from the lecture notes on anatomy, physiology, and homeostasis.

Anatomy

Study of the structure of body parts and their relationships to one another.

Physiology

Study of the function of body parts and how they carry out life-sustaining activities.

Gross (macroscopic) anatomy

Study of large, visible structures; includes regional, system, and surface approaches.

Regional anatomy

Study of all structures within a particular area of the body.

System anatomy

Study of one body system (e.g., cardiovascular, nervous, muscular).

Surface anatomy

Study of internal structures as they relate to overlying skin.

Microscopic anatomy

Structures that are too small to be seen with the naked eye.

Cytology

Microscopic study of cells.

Histology

Microscopic study of tissues.

Developmental anatomy

Developmental changes in anatomy throughout life.

Embryology

Developmental changes before birth.

Subdivisions of physiology

Physiology organized by organ systems; also examines cellular and molecular levels and chemical reactions.

Complementarity of structure and function

Anatomy and physiology are inseparable; function reflects structure; form follows function.

Chemical level (structural organization)

Atoms, molecules, and organelles—the smallest units of matter in the body.

Cellular level

Level consisting of a single cell.

Tissue level

Level consisting of groups of similar cells.

Organ level

Level containing two or more types of tissues that perform a specific function.

Organ system level

Level where organs work closely together to accomplish a common purpose.

Organismal level

All organ systems functioning together to make the whole organism.

Integumentary system

External covering; protects body and serves as a boundary.

Skeletal system

Supports and protects body; provides framework for movement.

Muscular system

Allows movement via skeletal muscles and other muscle actions.

Nervous system

Control system that responds to stimuli and processes information.

Nutrients

Chemicals (carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins) for energy and cell building.

Oxygen

Essential for energy release from foods.

Water

Most abundant chemical in the body; medium for chemical reactions and secretions/excretions.

Normal body temperature

Around 37°C; deviations affect the rate of chemical reactions.

Atmospheric pressure

Air pressure needed for breathing and gas exchange in the lungs.

Homeostasis

Maintenance of relatively stable internal conditions despite external changes; dynamic equilibrium.

Receptor (sensor)

Monitors the environment and responds to stimuli.

Control center

Determines set point and appropriate response; processes input from receptors.

Effector

Receives output from the control center and enacts the response.

Variable

A factor that can change (e.g., blood sugar, temperature, volume).

Negative feedback

Primary control mechanism; response reduces or shuts off the original stimulus.

Positive feedback

Feedback that amplifies the original stimulus; occurs in infrequent, short-lived events (e.g., labor contractions).

Contractility

Cellular-level movement or shortening in cells.