Anatomy and Physiology: Key Terms and Concepts

A series of flashcards covering essential vocabulary terms and definitions related to anatomy and physiology concepts.

abdominopelvic cavity

Division of the anterior (ventral) cavity that houses the abdominal and pelvic viscera.

anabolism

Assembly of more complex molecules from simpler molecules.

anatomical position

Standard reference position used for describing locations and directions on the human body.

anatomy

Science that studies the form and composition of the body’s structures.

catabolism

Breaking down of more complex molecules into simpler molecules.

cranial cavity

Division of the posterior (dorsal) cavity that houses the brain.

cell

Smallest independently functioning unit of all organisms.

computed tomography (CT)

Medical imaging technique that uses computer-enhanced cross-sectional X-ray images.

control center

Compares values to their normal range; deviations cause the activation of an effector.

homeostasis

Steady state of body systems that living organisms maintain.

medial

Describes the middle or direction toward the middle of the body.

ultrasonography

Application of ultrasonic waves to visualize subcutaneous body structures.

tissue

Group of similar or closely related cells that act together to perform a specific function.

frontal plane

Two-dimensional, vertical plane that divides the body or organ into anterior and posterior portions.

negative feedback

Homeostatic mechanism that stabilizes an upset in the body’s physiological condition.

organ

Functionally distinct structure composed of two or more types of tissues.

dorsal cavity

Posterior body cavity that houses the brain and spinal cord.

sagittal plane

Two-dimensional, vertical plane that divides the body or organ into right and left sides.

organism

Living being that has a cellular structure and can independently perform all physiological functions.

peritoneum

Serous membrane that lines the abdominopelvic cavity and covers the organs found there.

superior

Describes a position above or higher than another part of the body proper.

metabolism

Sum of all of the body’s chemical reactions.

ventral cavity

Larger body cavity located anterior to the posterior (dorsal) cavity.

positive feedback

Mechanism that intensifies a change in the body’s physiological condition.

sensor (receptor)

Reports a monitored physiological value to the control center.