ANP1111 - Topic 1: Anatomical Terminology & Introduction to Homeostasis

Vocabulary flashcards covering anatomical terminology, body planes, directional terms, levels of structural organization, homeostasis, and regulatory systems.

Atom

The smallest particle of an element with all of the properties of that element.

Molecule

The smallest amount of a substance that can exist alone, consisting of a combination of atoms.

Organelle

Specific associations of molecules that form the basic components of living cells.

Cell

The fundamental structural and functional unit of a living thing; cells vary widely in size and shape and can arise only from other cells.

Tissue

Groups of similar cells that have a common function.

Organ

A structure composed of at least 2 (but usually 4) tissue types that performs a specific function for the body.

Organ system

Organs that work closely with one another to accomplish a common purpose.

Superior (cranial)

Toward the head end or upper part of a structure or the body; above.

Inferior (caudal)

Away from the head end or toward the lower part of a structure or the body; below.

Anterior (ventral)

Toward or at the front end of the body; in front of.

Posterior (dorsal)

Toward or at the back of the body; behind.

Medial

Toward or at the midline of the body; on the inner side of.

Lateral

Away from the midline of the body; on the outer side of.

Intermediate

Between a more medial and a more lateral structure.

Proximal

Closer to the origin of the body part or the point of attachment.

Distal

Farther from the origin of the body part or the point of attachment.

Superficial

Toward or at the body surface.

Deep

Away from the body surface; more internal.

Axial part

Fundamental division of the body consisting of the head, neck, and trunk.

Appendicular part

Fundamental division of the body consisting of appendages or limbs attached to the axis.

Sagittal 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 plane

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

Homeostasis

The ability of the body to maintain relatively stable internal conditions even though there is continuous change in the outside world.

Receptor

A homeostatic component that senses change (stimulus) and sends information along the afferent pathway to the control centre.

Control Centre

A homeostatic component that determines the set point for variable maintenance, analyzes information, and determines the correct response.

Effector

A homeostatic component that provides the means for the response via output along the efferent pathway.

Negative Feedback

A homeostatic mechanism where the output reduces or shuts off the original stimulus to prevent sudden, severe changes.

Positive Feedback

A homeostatic mechanism where the response enhances the original stimulus so that output is further stimulated in the same direction.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

A system of motor neurons to smooth and cardiac muscle and glands that allows responses usually without awareness.

Hormone

A chemical substance released directly into the ECF that regulates the functions of other cells in the body.

Hypothalamus

The integration centre of the ANS containing centres to coordinate heart activity, blood pressure, body temperature, water balance, and endocrine activity.