Chapter 1: Anatomy

Anatomy

Study of the structure of living things.

Gross or Macroscopic

Large structures visible to the naked eye.

Microscopic

Study of cells and tissues.

Development

Changes in the structure of living organisms.

Physiology

Study of the function of living things.

Structure determines Function

The shape and location of a structure indicate its function.

Levels of structural organization

Hierarchical arrangement from atoms to organisms.

Atoms

Smallest particles of matter that take up space and have mass.

Molecules

Two or more atoms held together by chemical bonds.

Cell

The structural unit of all living things.

Tissue

A group of similar cells with a common function.

Organ

A structure made of two or more tissue types with a specific function.

Organ system

A group of organs working together for a common purpose.

Organism

An individual living thing.

Homeostasis

The ability to maintain stable internal conditions.

Negative feedback mechanism

Output reverses the direction of the stimulus to restore balance.

Positive feedback mechanism

Output enhances the stimulus, often in rare situations.

Nervous system

Fast-acting control system using electrical signals; includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.

Urinary system

Removes nitrogenous wastes from the body.

Respiratory system

Facilitates gas exchange, supplying oxygen and removing carbon dioxide.

Skeletal system

Provides body framework, shape, and produces blood cells.

Endocrine system

Slow-acting control system that produces hormones for growth and reproduction.

Digestive system

Breaks down food and removes solid waste.

Reproductive system

Produces offspring; includes male and female reproductive organs.

Cardiovascular system

Transports blood, nutrients, and waste throughout the body.

Lymphatic system

Removes fluid from tissues and supports immunity.

Integumentary system

Covers and protects the body; includes skin, hair, and nails.

Muscular system

Facilitates movement and generates heat.

Anatomical position

Body standing up, facing forward, arms down, palms forward.

Directional terms

Terms used to describe the location of body parts relative to each other.

Superior

Above.

Inferior

Below.

Anterior or Ventral

Front.

Posterior or Dorsal

Back.

Superficial or External

Closer to the surface.

Deep or Internal

Away from the surface.

Contralateral

Opposite side.

Ipsilateral

Same side.

Medial

Close to the midline.

Lateral

Further away from the midline.

Intermediate

Between two structures.

Proximal

Closer to the shoulder or hip.

Distal

Closer to the fingers or toes.

Dorsal body cavity

Contains the brain and spinal cord.

Ventral body cavity

Divided by the diaphragm; includes thoracic and abdominal pelvic cavities.

Thoracic cavity

Upper part of the ventral cavity, containing pleural and mediastinum cavities.

Abdominal pelvic cavity

Lower part of the ventral cavity, holding digestive and some urinary/reproductive organs.