Major Themes of Anatomy & Physiology – Study Guide

Flashcards covering major themes of Anatomy & Physiology based on Chapter 1, including definitions and key concepts.

Anatomy

The study of structure (what body parts look like and how they are organized).

Physiology

The study of function (how body parts work).

Gross Anatomy

Study of structures visible to the naked eye.

Microscopic Anatomy

Study of structures too small to be seen without a microscope.

Histology

The study of tissues.

Cytology

The study of cells.

Structure–Function Relationship

Function reflects structure: the form of a body part allows it to perform its job.

Reductionism

Breaking the body down into simpler components to understand how it works.

Holism

Viewing the body as a whole, recognizing that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Homeostasis

Maintenance of stable internal conditions (dynamic equilibrium around a set point).

Metabolism

All chemical reactions in the body.

Anabolism

Building complex molecules.

Catabolism

Breaking complex molecules into simpler ones.

Responsiveness

Ability to sense and respond to stimuli.

Brain death

Irreversible cessation of cerebral function.

Cardiopulmonary death

Irreversible cessation of heart and lung function.

Basic Survival Needs

Nutrients, oxygen, water, normal body temperature, and atmospheric pressure.

Feedback Mechanisms

Processes that regulate homeostasis.

Negative Feedback

Output reduces the original stimulus.

Positive Feedback

Output enhances the original stimulus.

Anatomical Position

Standing upright with feet shoulder-width apart, arms at sides, and palms facing forward.

Axial Regions

Includes the head, neck, and trunk.

Appendicular Regions

Includes the upper and lower limbs.

Dorsal Body Cavity

Contains the cranial cavity (brain) and vertebral cavity (spinal cord).

Ventral Body Cavity

Contains the thoracic cavity and abdominopelvic cavity.

Pleural Cavity

Cavity surrounding the lungs.

Mediastinum

Region containing the esophagus, trachea, and heart.

Pericardial Cavity

Cavity surrounding the heart.

Meninges

Three protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Serous Membranes

Double-layered membranes that reduce friction.

Intraperitoneal Organs

Organs surrounded by peritoneum.

Retroperitoneal Organs

Organs located outside the peritoneum.