Introduction to Human Anatomy and Body Systems

A collection of vocabulary flashcards defining key anatomical terms, levels of biological organization, organ system functions, and cellular communication mechanisms.

Human anatomy

The study of the structure of the human body.

Morphology

A term described as a fancy word for shape.

Chemical level

The smallest and most specific level of anatomical organization in the human body.

Cells

The fundamental unit of the body and the smallest unit considered living, which processes energy, grows, and reproduces.

Tissue

A group of cells working together to perform a particular function.

Organ

A structure made of $2$ or more tissues working together to accomplish a particular function.

Organ systems

Groups of organs that work together to accomplish related functions, with all $11$ systems forming the organism.

Respiratory system

The system responsible for obtaining oxygen and eliminating the waste product known as carbon dioxide ($CO_2$).

Cardiovascular system

A system responsible for internal transport and the distribution of materials to or from cells through blood.

Digestive system

The system that obtains water and nutrients and eliminates waste, primarily happening in the small intestines.

Urinary system

The system that eliminates nitrogenous waste, helps maintain water balance, and produces urine.

Nitrogenous waste

Waste molecules that contain nitrogen and are eliminated from the body by the urinary system.

Arteries

Blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart towards the cells.

Veins

Blood vessels that carry blood from the cells back to the heart.

Capillary

A microscopically small and thin blood vessel where materials like gases and nutrients enter and exit the blood.

Nervous system

A fast-acting but short-lived communication system that uses neurons to send electrical impulses.

Action potential

The technical name for the electrical impulses or nerve impulses generated by a neuron.

Neurotransmitters

Molecules released by a neuron to signal a target or effector cell across a small gap.

Endocrine system

A system made of glands and endocrine cells that release hormones into the blood to regulate the body.

Hormones

Chemical signals released by endocrine cells that are distributed by blood to signal specific target cells.