Introduction to the Human Body - Chapter 2 (Vocabulary Flashcards)

Vocabulary flashcards covering core terms from chapters on anatomy, physiology, and body organization.

Anatomy

The scientific study of the body’s structures.

Physiology

The scientific study of the chemistry and physics of body structures and how they work together to sustain life.

Microscopic anatomy

Study of structures that require a microscope (cells and tissues).

Gross anatomy

Anatomy observable without a microscope (larger structures).

Cytology

The study of cells.

Histology

The study of tissues.

Regional anatomy

Study of the interrelationships of structures in a body region.

Systemic anatomy

Study of the structures that make up a discrete body system.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

Imaging using strong magnetic fields to visualize internal structures without ionizing radiation.

fMRI (Functional MRI)

MRI technique that shows brain activity in real time by measuring blood flow.

Ultrasonography

Imaging using high-frequency sound waves; real-time and safe in pregnancy.

X-ray imaging

Imaging using high-energy radiation; best for hard structures like bone.

CT scan

Computed tomography; cross-sectional images from multiple X-ray angles for detailed anatomy.

Phosphorylation

Addition of a phosphate group to a molecule, often altering function of proteins.

Bipedalism

Walking on two feet; a key human adaptation related to pelvis structure.

Evolution

Change in gene expression across generations that can alter populations over time.

Melanin

Pigment in skin that protects against UV radiation; varies with environment.

Folate

Vitamin B9 essential for DNA synthesis; sensitive to UV exposure effects.

Gradient

A difference in a property (concentration, electrical, or pressure) between regions that drives flow.

Flow

Movement of substances through the body driven by gradients and resistance.

Concentration gradient

Difference in solute concentration that drives diffusion of molecules.

Electrical gradient

Gradient that drives movement of charged particles (ions).

Pressure gradient

Gradient that drives the flow of fluids or gases (e.g., blood flow).

Homeostasis

Dynamic stability of the body's internal conditions.

Setpoint

Physiological value around which a regulated variable fluctuates.

Sensor (receptor)

Detects changes in the internal environment and signals the control center.

Control center

Processes information from sensors and coordinates a response.

Effector

Produces a response to bring the variable back toward the setpoint.

Negative feedback

A mechanism that reverses a deviation from the setpoint to maintain homeostasis.

Positive feedback

A mechanism that amplifies a deviation, often to accomplish a task (not for maintaining homeostasis).

Negative feedback loop

A four-part system: sensor to control center to effector to return the variable to normal.

Positive feedback loop

A self-amplifying process that continues until interrupted (e.g., childbirth).

Anatomical position

Standings stance with feet together, palms forward; right/left refer to the patient.

Anterior

Front (ventral) side of the body.

Posterior

Back (dorsal) side of the body.

Superior

Above or toward the head (cranial).

Inferior

Below or toward the feet (caudal).

Lateral

Toward the outer side of the body.

Medial

Toward the midline of the body.

Proximal

Closer to the point of attachment or trunk (on limbs).

Distal

Farther from the point of attachment or trunk (on limbs).

Sagittal plane

Plane that divides the body into right and left sides; midsagittal if equal.

Frontal (coronal) plane

Plane that divides the body into anterior and posterior portions.

Transverse plane

Plane that divides the body into superior and inferior portions.

Nine abdominopelvic regions

Regions such as right hypochondriac, epigastric, left hypochondriac, etc., used to describe locations in the abdomen.

Abdominopelvic quadrants

Four quadrants: upper right, upper left, lower right, lower left.

Serous membranes

Double-layered membranes (parietal and visceral) lining cavities and covering organs with serous fluid.

Parietal membrane

Membrane lining the cavity walls.

Visceral membrane

Membrane covering the organs (viscera).

Pleura

Serous membranes surrounding the lungs.

Pericardium

Serous membranes surrounding the heart.

Peritoneum

Serous membranes lining and covering many abdominal organs.

Serous cavity

Fluid-filled space between parietal and visceral layers of serous membranes.