Levels of Organization of the Human Body

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology related to the levels of organization in the human body, including details about chemical structures, types of chemical bonds, tissue types, and important physiological balances.

Chemical Level

The most basic level of organization in the human body, involving atoms and molecules.

Tissue

Groups of cells that are similar in structure and function, classified into four main types: epithelial, connective, nervous, and muscle.

Homeostasis

The process by which the body maintains a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

pH Scale

A scale used to measure the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, ranging from 0 to 14.

Isotopes

Atoms that have the same atomic number but different atomic weights.

Anabolism

Metabolic processes that build larger molecules from smaller units, storing energy in the process.

Catabolism

Metabolic processes that break down larger molecules into smaller units, releasing energy in the process.

Ionic Bonds

Bonds formed through the transfer of electrons between atoms to stabilize their outer shells.

Covalent Bonds

Bonds formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms.

Hydrogen Bonds

Weak bonds typically formed between hydrogen and oxygen or nitrogen, crucial for the structure of DNA.

Osmosis

The movement of water through a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher concentration.

Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)

A molecule that provides energy to all living cells, comprised of adenine, ribose, and three phosphate groups.

Plasma Membrane

The semipermeable membrane that surrounds the cytoplasm of a cell, composed of a lipid bilayer and proteins.

Neurons

Cells that transmit electrical signals in the nervous system.

Epithelial Tissue

A type of tissue that covers body surfaces and lines cavities, serving roles in protection, absorption, and secretion.

Connective Tissue

The most abundant type of tissue in the body, providing support, elasticity, and transport of substances.

Muscle Tissue

Tissue that is specialized for contraction and movement, including skeletal, smooth, and cardiac muscle.

Nervous Tissue

Tissue that makes up the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, responsible for transmitting electrical signals.

Acid

A substance that disassociates in solution to produce hydrogen ions (H+).

Base

A substance that combines with hydrogen ions (H+) to neutralize acids, usually containing hydroxide ions (OH-).