Health Science Theory – Anatomy & Physiology Study Guide

Vocabulary flashcards defining key terms, structures, and body system functions based on the Anatomy & Physiology study guide.

Anatomy

The study of the structure of the body.

Physiology

The study of the function of the body.

Cell membrane

The outer layer that surrounds and protects a cell.

Chromosome

A threadlike structure in the nucleus that carries genetic information.

DNA

Genetic material found on chromosomes.

Differentiation

The process in which cells become specialized for specific functions.

Homeostasis

Maintaining a stable internal environment in the body.

Hormones

Chemicals secreted by endocrine glands that regulate body functions.

Respiration

Supplying oxygen to cells and removing carbon dioxide.

Immunity

The body's ability to resist pathogens and disease.

Collagen

A strong protein made of densely packed fibers.

Cell

The basic unit of life.

Tissue

A group of similar cells working together.

Organ

Two or more types of tissues working together.

Body system

A group of organs working together.

Epidermis

The visible, outer layer of skin that does not contain blood vessels.

Dermis

The deeper layer of skin.

Sebaceous glands

Glands that produce oily secretions.

Keratin

The primary material that hair and nails are made of.

Cardiac muscle

Muscle tissue found in the heart.

Smooth muscle

Involuntary muscle found in organs.

Skeletal muscle

Voluntary muscle used for movement.

Arteries

Blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart.

Veins

Blood vessels that carry blood to the heart.

Red blood cells

Blood cells that transport oxygen.

White blood cells

Blood cells that help fight infection and are part of the immune system.

Platelets

Blood components that help blood clot.

Plasma

The liquid portion of blood.

Pathogen

Something that can cause disease.

Antigen

A foreign substance that triggers an immune response.

Antibody

A protein produced by the immune system in response to an antigen.

Neurons

Cells that generate, send, and receive electrical signals.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The division of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The division of the nervous system consisting of nerves and ganglia outside the brain and spinal cord.

Liver

Organ in the digestive system that produces bile.

Gallbladder

Organ that stores bile and is not considered a vital organ because a person can live without it.