Body Structure and Function

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to the structure and function of the body and its systems.

Cell

The basic unit of living organisms that carries out metabolism.

ATP

Adenosine triphosphate; the energy compound of the cell that stores energy needed for cell activities.

Tissue

A group of cells that acts together for a specific purpose.

Mitosis

The process of cell division.

Epithelial Tissue

Covers and protects body structures; lines organs, vessels, and cavities.

Connective Tissue

Supports and binds other body structures.

Muscle Tissue

Contracts to produce movement; includes skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle.

Nervous Tissue

Makes up the brain, spinal cord, and nerves; coordinates body responses by transmitting electrical impulses.

Homeostasis

A steady state; a condition of internal stability and constancy.

Anatomic Position

Standard position for anatomic studies where the body is erect and facing forward.

Directional Terms

Terms used to describe the positions of structures within the body.

Abdominopelvic Cavity

The larger ventral cavity between the diaphragm and pelvis that includes the abdominal and pelvic cavities.

Mucous Membranes

Tissues that secrete mucus.

Energy Metabolism

The sum of all the physical and chemical reactions that occur within an organism.

Chromosomes

Threadlike bodies in a cell's nucleus that contain genetic information.

Histology

The study of tissues.

Nucleus

The control center of the cell that contains DNA and governs cell activities.

Mitochondria

Cell organelles that generate most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).

Cell Membrane

The semipermeable outer boundary of the cell that regulates the movement of materials in and out.

Organ

A group of tissues integrated to perform a specific function, such as the heart or stomach.

System

A group of organs that work together to perform complex body functions.

Sagittal Plane

A vertical plane that divides the body into right and left portions.

Frontal Plane

Also called a coronal plane; divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) portions.

Transverse Plane

A horizontal plane that divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) portions.

Proximal

Nearer to the point of attachment or to a given reference point.

Distal

Farther from the point of attachment or from a given reference point.

Superior

Above or in a higher position.

Inferior

Below or in a lower position.

Medial

Nearer to the midline of the body.

Lateral

Farther from the midline of the body; toward the side.

Anabolism

The building phase of metabolism, converting simple compounds into complex substances.

Catabolism

The breaking down phase of metabolism, converting complex substances into simpler ones with the release of energy.