Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts from the Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology chapter, aiding in the understanding of key definitions and principles.

Anatomy

Greek for 'cutting up', examines structures.

Physiology

Greek for 'relationship to nature', function of body parts.

Homeostasis

Maintenance of constant internal environment.

Metabolism

The sum of all chemical reactions in a living system.

Atom

Tiny particles that make up chemicals.

Molecule

Particles consisting of atoms joined together.

Macromolecule

Large particles consisting of molecules.

Organelle

Functional part of a cell.

Cell

Basic unit of structure and function.

Tissue

Layer or mass of cells with a specific function.

Organ

Group of different tissues with a function.

Organ System

Group of organs with a common function.

Organism

Composed of interacting organ systems.

Internal environment

Environment within the body.

Cellular differentiation

Specialization of cells due to gene expression.

Feedback loops

Homeostatic mechanisms for stability.

Positive Feedback Loop

Stimulus enhances or exaggerates changes.

Negative Feedback Loop

Stimulus diminishes or counteracts changes.

Visceral layer

Inner layer that covers an organ.

Parietal layer

Outer layer lining the wall of a cavity.

Cranial cavity

Houses the brain.

Thoracic cavity

Houses lungs and thoracic viscera.

Abdominopelvic cavity

Contains abdominal and pelvic viscera.

Integumentary System

Body covering including skin, hair, and nails.

Digestive System

Receives, breaks down, and absorbs food.

Cardiovascular System

Moves blood through blood vessels.

Anatomical position

Standing erect with face forward and upper limbs at the side.

Superior

Above another part.

Inferior

Below another part.

Anterior

Toward the front.

Posterior

Toward the back.