Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology and Chemistry of Life

This set of flashcards covers key concepts in Anatomy, Physiology, and Chemistry relevant to human biology, including definitions of terms, types of chemical bonds and reactions, and concepts of homeostasis.

Anatomy

The study of the structure and organization of the body.

Physiology

The study of the functions and processes of the body.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment in the body.

Ionic bond

A chemical bond formed between two ions with opposite charges.

Covalent bond

A chemical bond formed when two atoms share electrons.

Hydrogen bond

A weak attraction between a hydrogen atom and another atom, often oxygen or nitrogen.

Synthesis reaction

A chemical reaction where two or more substances combine to form a new compound.

Decomposition reaction

A chemical reaction where a compound breaks down into simpler substances.

Exchange reaction

A chemical reaction where parts of two compounds exchange places to form two new compounds.

Enzyme

Biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body.

Saturated Fat

A type of fat that contains no double bonds between carbon atoms.

Unsaturated Fat

A type of fat that contains one or more double bonds between carbon atoms.

Proximal

Closer to the point of attachment or origin.

Distal

Farther from the point of attachment or origin.

Superficial

Closer to the surface of the body.

Deep

Farther away from the surface of the body.

Sagittal/Midsagittal plane

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

Frontal/Coronal plane

A vertical plane that divides the body into anterior and posterior parts.

Transverse/Horizontal plane

A horizontal plane that divides the body into superior and inferior parts.

Negative feedback

A process that counteracts a change in the body to maintain homeostasis, e.g., regulation of body temperature.

Positive feedback

A process that enhances or amplifies a change in the body, e.g., childbirth.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

A molecule that provides energy for cellular processes; primarily produced in mitochondria.

Lipids

A group of organic molecules that are insoluble in water; important for energy storage.

Carbohydrates

Organic molecules made of sugar, used as a primary energy source.

Proteins

Large molecules made up of amino acids, essential for various body functions.