Flash cards

Anatomy

The study of human structure that can be seen with the naked eye and how the body parts are organized.

Physiology

The study of the functions or activities performed by the body’s structures.

Histology

The microscopic anatomy; the study of the structure and composition of tissue.

Cell

The basic unit of all living things responsible for carrying on all life processes.

Protoplasm

Colorless, jellylike substance in cells containing food elements necessary for cell growth, reproduction, and self-repair.

Nucleus

The dense, active protoplasm found in the center of the cell, playing an important role in reproduction and metabolism.

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)

The blueprint material of genetic information that controls the functions of every living cell.

Mitochondria

Cell structures that take in nutrients, break them down, and create energy for the cell, called ATP.

ATP (adenosine triphosphate)

The chemical energy used within cells for metabolism.

Neurons

Also known as nerve cells, they make up the nerves, brain, and spinal cord and transmit nerve impulses.

Cell membrane

Part of the cell that encloses protoplasm and permits substances to enter and leave the cell.

Mitosis

The process of cell division resulting in two new identical cells.

Cell metabolism

Chemical processes that take place in living organisms, allowing the cells to grow and respond to their environments.

Connective tissue

A fibrous tissue that binds together, protects, and supports various body parts.

Epithelial tissue

Protective lining on organs and cavities of the body.

Muscle tissue

Tissue that contracts and moves various body parts.

Nerve tissue

Tissue that controls and coordinates all body functions by transmitting messages.

Integumentary system

The largest organ system of the body, providing protection, temperature regulation, and sensation.

Skeletal system

The system of bones forming the physical foundation of the body.

Muscular system

The body system that covers, shapes, and supports skeletal tissue and enables movement.

Nervous system

The body system that controls and coordinates all other systems, composed of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.

Endocrine system

A group of specialized glands that affect growth, development, and various body functions.

Circulatory system

The system responsible for the steady circulation of blood throughout the body.

Lymphatic system

The system that aids in the immune response and circulates lymph fluid.

Digestive system

The system that processes food for nutrient absorption and waste elimination.

Excretory system

The system responsible for eliminating waste matter from the body.

Red blood cells

Blood cells that carry oxygen from the lungs to the body cells.

White blood cells

Cells that destroy disease-causing microorganisms.

Platelets

Cell fragments that contribute to blood clotting.

Plasma

The fluid part of the blood, containing proteins, sugars, and minerals.

Common carotid arteries

Arteries that supply blood to the face, neck, and head.

Facial artery

Artery that supplies blood to the face.

Internal jugular vein

Vein that collects blood from the brain and parts of the face and neck.

External jugular vein

Vein that carries blood returning to the heart from the head, face, and neck.

Vagus nerve

The tenth cranial nerve that regulates various involuntary functions and can influence fainting.