Chapter 01: Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology - Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from Chapter 1 notes.

Anatomy

The study of the structure and morphology of the human body and its parts.

Physiology

The study of the functions of the human body and its parts.

Cadaver dissection

The examination of donated human bodies to learn anatomy and physiology.

Structure and function

The concept that the structure of a body part determines its function.

Levels of organization

Hierarchy from atoms to organ systems to an organism.

Atom

Tiny particles that make up chemicals; the basic unit of an element.

Proton

A positively charged subatomic particle in the nucleus.

Neutron

An electrically neutral subatomic particle in the nucleus.

Electron

A negatively charged subatomic particle orbiting the nucleus.

Molecule

Particles formed when atoms join together (e.g., water, glucose).

Macromolecule

Large molecules composed of smaller units (e.g., DNA, protein).

Organelle

A functional part of a cell (e.g., mitochondrion, lysosome).

Cell

The basic unit of structure and function in living things.

Tissue

A layer or mass of cells with a specific function (e.g., adipose, epithelial).

Organ

A structure made of different tissues that performs a function.

Organ system

A group of organs with a common function.

Organism

A living being composed of interacting organ systems.

Ultrasound

Noninvasive imaging using high-frequency sound waves.

Sonogram

An image produced by ultrasound.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

Imaging technique using magnetic fields to produce high-resolution internal images.

Cell differentiation

Specialization of cells due to gene expression.

Gradient

A difference in concentration or pressure driving movement from high to low.

Permeability

Property of membranes that allows substances to pass or restrict passage.

Cell membrane (plasma membrane) mechanisms

Regulates entry/exit of substances and responds to signals.

Membrane receptor

Protein in the cell membrane that binds signals and triggers responses.

Receptor

A sensor that detects a stimulus and provides information about change.

Control center

Part of a homeostatic mechanism that processes information and maintains the set point.

Effector

A muscle or gland that responds to the control center to restore balance.

Homeostasis

Maintenance of a stable internal environment.

Homeostatic mechanism

Self-regulating system with receptor, control center, and effector.

Negative feedback

A mechanism where the response reverses the deviation from the set point.

Positive feedback

A mechanism where the deviation is amplified; usually short-lived.

Internal environment

The environment within the body that remains relatively constant.

Water

The most abundant body substance; medium for metabolic processes.

Oxygen

Gas used to release energy from nutrients.

Heat

Form of energy that helps regulate body temperature and metabolism.

Pressure

Application of force; atmospheric pressure aids breathing; hydrostatic pressure maintains blood flow.

Axial portion

Head, neck, and trunk of the body.

Appendicular portion

Upper and lower limbs.

Cranial cavity

Cavity that houses the brain.

Vertebral canal

Spinal canal that contains the spinal cord.

Thoracic cavity

Cavity housing the lungs and thoracic viscera.

Abdominopelvic cavity

Cavity containing abdominal and pelvic viscera.

Diaphragm

Muscle that separates the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities.

Mediastinum

Region between the lungs in the thoracic cavity containing the heart and other structures.

Abdominal cavity

Cavity containing stomach, liver, kidneys, intestines, etc.

Pelvic cavity

Cavity enclosed by pelvic bones containing end of large intestine, bladder, and reproductive organs.

Oral cavity

The mouth.

Nasal cavity

The nose cavity.

Orbital cavities

Eye sockets.

Middle ear cavities

Cavities containing auditory structures.

Serous membranes

Double-layered membranes with serous fluid that reduces friction.

Visceral layer

Inner layer that covers an organ.

Parietal layer

Outer layer that lines the wall of a cavity.

Visceral pleura

Serous membrane around the lungs.

Parietal pleura

Serous membrane lining the chest wall.

Visceral pericardium

Serous membrane around the heart.

Parietal pericardium

Serous membrane lining the pericardial cavity.

Integumentary system

Body covering; protects, regulates temperature, sensory reception, vitamin D production.

Skeletal system

Framework of bones and joints; supports and protects; mineral storage; blood cell production.

Muscular system

Muscles; movement; main source of body heat; maintains posture.

Nervous system

Integration and coordination via nerve impulses and neurotransmitters.

Endocrine system

Glands that secrete hormones; slower, longer-lasting effects.

Cardiovascular system

Transports gases, nutrients, hormones, and wastes through blood.

Lymphatic system

Returns tissue fluid to the blood; defends against infection; absorbs fats.

Digestive system

Receives, breaks down, absorbs nutrients; excretes waste.

Respiratory system

Moves air in/out; exchanges gases between air and blood.

Urinary system

Removes wastes; regulates electrolyte and water balance; forms urine.

Reproductive system

Male and female systems produce and transport sex cells and hormones; supports development and birth.

aging

Lifespan changes from microscopic to whole-body levels.

Anatomical position

Standing erect, facing forward, palms forward; baseline for terms.