anatomy and physiology

anatomy

The branch of biology that studies the structure of organisms, including their systems, organs, and tissues.

physiology

The branch of biology that focuses on the functions and processes of living organisms and their parts, including how systems work together to maintain life.

anatomy act

A piece of legislation that regulates the study and dissection of human bodies, ensuring ethical practices in anatomical studies and the treatment of cadavers.

function follows form

The principle that the shape or structure of an organism or its parts is closely related to its function, emphasizing the relationship between anatomy and physiology.

homeostasis

The ability of an organism to maintain stable internal conditions despite changes in the external environment, crucial for survival.

directional terms

Words used to describe the location of structures in relation to each other, such as anterior, posterior, superior, and inferior.

Sagittal plane

A vertical plane that divides the body into right and left halves, used to describe movements and anatomical locations.

parasagittal plane

A vertical plane that runs parallel to the sagittal plane, dividing the body into unequal right and left portions.

coronal plane

transverse plane

A horizontal plane that divides the body into upper (superior) and lower (inferior) parts, often used in imaging and anatomical descriptions.

axial parts

Refers to the central part of the body, including the head, neck, and trunk, as opposed to the limbs.

appedicular parts

Refers to the limbs of the body, including the arms and legs, as opposed to the axial parts.

anterior/ventral

Refers to the front side of the body; in humans, it is synonymous with "ventral," indicating the direction towards the belly.

posterior /dorsal

Refers to the back side of the body; in humans, it is synonymous with "dorsal," indicating the direction towards the spine.

superior/cranial