Chapter 1: AN INTRODUCTION TO THE HUMAN BODY

Anatomy

The scientific study of the body’s structures.

Physiology

The scientific study of the chemistry and physics of the structures of the body and the ways they function together.

Connectome

The wiring diagram of the brain, depicting the interconnections between nerve cells.

Homeostasis

The state of steady internal conditions maintained by living things.

Gross Anatomy

The study of larger structures of the body visible without magnification; also known as macroscopic anatomy.

Microscopic Anatomy

The study of structures that can only be observed with a microscope or other magnification devices.

Regional Anatomy

The study of the interrelationships of all structures in a specific body region.

Systemic Anatomy

The study of structures that make up a discrete body system.

Cell

The smallest independently functioning unit of a living organism.

Tissue

A group of many similar cells working together to perform a specific function.

Organ

An anatomically distinct structure composed of two or more tissue types.

Organ System

A group of organs that work together to perform major functions or meet physiological needs.

Epithelial Tissue

Tissue that covers exterior surfaces, lines internal cavities, and forms certain glands.

Connective Tissue

Tissue that binds the cells and organs of the body together, providing protection and support.

Muscle Tissue

Tissue responsible for movement, categorized into skeletal, smooth, and cardiac muscle.

Nervous Tissue

Tissue that allows the propagation of electrochemical signals throughout the body.

Anatomical Position

Standard reference position of the body standing upright, feet parallel, upper limbs at the sides with palms facing forward.

Directional Terms

Terms that describe the locations of body structures in relation to one another.

Sagittal Plane

Imaginary plane that divides the body into right and left sections.

Frontal Plane

Imaginary plane that divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) portions.

Transverse Plane

Imaginary plane that divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) portions.