ANP 230 - Basic Concepts: Homeostasis, Anatomy, and Basic Chemistry

Flashcards cover homeostasis, anatomical directions and planes, levels of organization, basic chemistry, and body chemistry concepts from the notes.

What is homeostasis?

The body's ability to maintain a relatively stable internal environment despite changes in the external environment.

What does balance/equilibrium mean in physiology?

A state in which internal conditions remain relatively constant or stable.

What is anatomical position?

Standing erect, facing forward, feet together or slightly apart, arms at the sides with palms facing forward.

What does superior mean?

Toward the head (upper part of the body).

What does inferior mean?

Toward the feet (lower part of the body).

What does anterior (ventral) mean?

Toward the front of the body.

What does posterior (dorsal) mean?

Toward the back of the body.

What does medial mean?

Toward the midline of the body.

What does lateral mean?

Away from the midline; toward the side.

What does proximal mean?

Closer to the point of attachment or to the trunk.

What does distal mean?

Farther from the point of attachment or the trunk.

What is the sagittal plane?

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

List the basic organizational levels of the body from smallest to largest.

Cells → Tissues → Organs → Organ systems → Organism.

What is an element?

A pure substance made of only one type of atom.

What is the atomic number?

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.

What is an ionic bond?

A chemical bond formed when electrons are donated and accepted, producing charged ions.

What is a covalent bond?

A chemical bond formed by sharing electrons between atoms.

Name some major biological macromolecules.

Carbohydrates, proteins, lipids (fats), and nucleic acids.

What is ATP?

Adenosine triphosphate; the cell's main energy currency.

What are DNA and RNA?

Nucleic acids; DNA stores genetic information; RNA transfers genetic information and participates in protein synthesis.

What is the normal blood pH range?

Approximately 7.35 to 7.45.

What is water's chemical formula?

H2O.

What is NaCl?

Sodium chloride; common table salt; an ionic compound.