Ch 1 Anatomy

Anatomy

The study of the structure of the body and their relationships to one another.

Physiology

The study of the function of the body and how it carries out life-sustaining activities.

Gross Anatomy

The study of body structures visible to the naked eye.

Regional Anatomy

Examines all structures in a specific region of the body.

Systemic Anatomy

Studies body structures system by system.

Surface Anatomy

Studies internal structures as they relate to the overlying skin surface.

Microscopic Anatomy

Studies structures that require magnification to be seen.

Cytology

The study of cells.

Histology

The study of tissues.

Developmental Anatomy

Traces structural changes throughout the lifespan.

Embryology

The study of developmental changes before birth.

Renal Physiology

Concerns kidney function and urine production.

Neurophysiology

Explains the workings of the nervous system.

Cardiovascular Physiology

Examines the operation of the heart and blood vessels.

Principle of Complementarity

The idea that anatomy and physiology are inseparable; function relies on structure.

Levels of Structural Organization

Ranges from atoms to entire organisms.

Chemical Level

Atoms combine to form molecules, which form organelles and cells.

Cellular Level

Individual cells vary widely in size and shape, reflecting their unique functions.

Tissue Level

Groups of similar cells that have a common function.

Epithelial Tissue

Covers body surfaces and lines cavities.

Muscle Tissue

Provides movement.

Connective Tissue

Supports and protects body organs.

Nervous Tissue

Transmits electrical impulses for rapid internal communication.

Organ Level

A discrete structure composed of at least two tissue types that performs a specific function.

Organ System Level

Organs that work together to accomplish a common purpose.

Organismal Level

Represents the total of structural levels working together to keep us alive.

Maintaining Boundaries

The internal environment must remain separate from the external environment.

Movement

Activities promoted by the muscular system and the propulsion of substances through internal organs.

Responsiveness

The ability to sense and respond to changes in the environment.

Digestion

The breakdown of food into absorbable units.

Metabolism

All chemical reactions occurring within body cells, including catabolism and anabolism.

Excretion

The process of removing wastes from the body.

Reproduction

Occurs at both cellular and organismal levels.

Growth

An increase in size of a body part or organism as a whole.

Survival Needs

Nutrients, oxygen, water, normal body temperature, and appropriate atmospheric pressure.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment.

Negative Feedback

A mechanism that counteracts a change to maintain homeostasis.

Homeostatic Imbalance

A disturbance in homeostasis that can lead to disease.