Human Body Systems

A set of 35 vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to human body systems.

Organ System

A group of organs that work together to perform one or more functions.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of internal conditions as external conditions change.

Skeletal System

Supports and protects the body, allowing it to move.

Muscular System

A collection of muscles that allow the body to move, maintain posture, and circulate blood.

Respiratory System

Inhales oxygen and exhales carbon dioxide from the lungs.

Cardiovascular System

Moves blood throughout the body using the heart.

Lymphatic System

Part of the immune system; protects from infection and maintains fluid balance.

Endocrine System

Network of glands that produce hormones to regulate body functions.

Excretory System

Gets rid of the body's waste.

Digestive System

Breaks down food into nutrients that can be used by the body.

Integumentary System

Protective covering of the body that also regulates temperature.

Neurons

Cells that transmit nerve impulses throughout the nervous system.

Hormones

Chemical messengers in the body released from glands.

Compact Bone

The hard outer layer of bone that stores minerals such as calcium.

Spongy Bone

The inner layer of bone that provides strength and supports bone structure.

Ligaments

Connective tissue that holds bones together and stabilizes joints.

Cartilage

Gel-like padding between bones that allows movement.

Fracture

A break or crack in a bone due to trauma or excessive force.

Sprain

An injury to a ligament caused by overstretching or tearing.

Osteoporosis

Disease causing bones to become thin and break easily.

Arthritis

Disease causing inflammation and stiffness in joints.

Cardiac Muscle

Muscle that makes up the heart.

Skeletal Muscle

Muscles that are attached to bones and control movement.

Smooth Muscle

Muscle found in organs that helps them function, such as the digestive system.

Peristalsis

Muscle contractions that move food through the digestive system.

Dialysis

A medical process that performs functions of the kidneys in filtering blood.

Plasma

The liquid component of blood that carries cells and nutrients.

White Blood Cells (WBCs)

Cells of the immune system that protect against infection.

Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

Cells that carry oxygen throughout the body.

Platelets

Cell fragments that help in blood clotting.

Diaphragm

A muscle below the lungs that aids in breathing.

Pharynx

The throat, which is part of the respiratory and digestive systems.

Larynx

Voice box that holds the vocal cords.

Trachea

The windpipe that connects the larynx to the lungs.

Bronchi

Branches of the trachea that lead to each lung.

Amnion

The protective sac surrounding the embryo during pregnancy.

Menstrual Cycle

The monthly process by which a woman's reproductive system prepares for pregnancy.

STI

Sexually transmitted infection transmitted through sexual contact.

Cortex

The outer layer of the adrenal gland that produces hormones such as cortisol.