Comprehensive Review of Human Anatomy and Physiology

These flashcards cover important vocabulary and definitions related to human anatomy and physiology, focusing on various body systems and processes.

Anatomy

The study of the physical structure of the body and its parts.

Physiology

The study of the mechanisms and processes that sustain life.

Digestion

The process of breaking down food into small, absorbable molecules.

Hydrolysis

The process of chemical digestion that splits molecules by adding water.

Alimentary Canal

A tube in the digestive system that extends from the mouth to the anus.

Peristalsis

Muscular contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Chyme

A liquid mixture of partially digested food released from the stomach into the small intestine.

Villi

Small, finger-like projections lining the small intestine that increase surface area for absorption.

Diarrhea

Excessive water in feces, often due to rapid peristalsis.

Homeostasis

The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment.

Neuron

The functional unit of the nervous system responsible for transmitting impulses.

Pulmonary Circulation

The movement of blood from the heart to the lungs and back.

Cardiac Muscle

Involuntary muscle found only in the heart.

Skeletal Muscle

Voluntary muscle that moves bones and is striated.

Smooth Muscle

Involuntary muscle found in internal organs.

Urinary System

The body system responsible for excreting waste and maintaining water balance.

Zygote

A fertilized egg formed by the union of sperm and egg.

Ovary

Female reproductive organ that produces eggs and hormones.

Placenta

An organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy for nutrient and waste exchange.

Homeostatic Mechanism

A process that helps maintain stability in bodily functions.

Hormones

Chemical messengers secreted into the bloodstream by endocrine glands.

Reflex Arc

The neural pathway that mediates a reflex action.

Lymph Nodes

Specialized structures that filter lymph and contain immune cells.

Gastrointestinal System

The organ system responsible for digestion and absorption of food.

Hemoglobin

An iron-rich protein in red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport.