Biological Systems and Processes

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to biological systems and processes, useful for exam preparation.

Tissue

A group of similar cells that perform a specific function.

Organ

A body structure that is composed of different kinds of tissue that work together.

Organ System

A group of organs that work together to perform a major function.

Stimulus

Any change or signal in the environment that can make an organism react.

Response

An action or change in behavior that occurs as a result of a stimulus.

Gland

An organ that produces and releases chemicals either through duct or into the bloodstream.

Hormone

The chemical produced by an endocrine gland that affects growth and development.

Stress

The reaction of a person’s body to a potentially threatening, challenging, or disturbing event.

Interactions

Communication or direct involvement with someone or something.

Stable

Something that hasn’t changed much and isn’t expected to change much in the future.

Digestion

The process that breaks complex molecules of food into smaller nutrient molecules.

Nutrients

Substances in food that provide the raw material and energy needed for essential processes.

Carbohydrates

An energy-rich organic compound made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.

Peristalsis

Waves of smooth muscle contraction that move food through the esophagus toward the stomach.

Saliva

A fluid produced in the mouth that aids in mechanical and chemical digestion.

Enzyme

A type of protein that speeds up chemical reactions in the body.

Circulatory system

An organ system that transports needed material to cells and removes waste.

Artery

A blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart.

Capillary

A tiny blood vessel where substances are exchanged between the blood and body cells.

Vein

A blood vessel that carries blood back to the heart.

Lymph

Fluid that travels through the lymphatic system consisting of water, white blood cells, and dissolved materials.

Bronchi

The two passages that direct air into the lungs.

Alveoli

Tiny sacs of lung tissue specialized for the movement of gases between air and blood.

Excretion

The process by which waste is removed from the body.

Nephron

Small filtering structure found in the kidneys that removes wastes from blood and produces urine.

Contract

To tighten and get smaller.

Neuron

A cell that carries information through the nervous system.

Synapse

The junction where one neuron can transfer an impulse to the next structure.

Brain

The part of the central nervous system located in the skull that controls most functions in the body.

Spinal cord

A thick column of nervous tissue that links the brain to nerves in the body.

Negative feedback

A process in which a system is turned off by the condition it produces.

Reflex

An automatic response that occurs rapidly and without conscious control.

Impulse

A brain signal in your body that triggers reactions.

Organized

 to be prepared, the way how something works