Study notes for Introduction to Anatomy and physiology

Characteristics of living things

Living things exhibit traits such as movement, respiration, nutrition, irritability, growth, excretion, and reproduction.

Asexual reproduction

A type of reproduction involving a single parent producing offspring without the use of sex gametes.

Binary fission

A form of asexual reproduction where a single organism divides to form two new daughter cells.

Sexual reproduction

Involves two parents producing sex gametes that combine during fertilization to form a zygote.

Cell

The smallest unit of life that makes up all living organisms.

Organelles

Specialized structures within cells that perform distinct functions.

Cytoplasm

The jelly-like substance within a cell that contains organelles and is the site of chemical reactions.

Nucleus

The part of a cell that contains DNA and regulates gene expression.

Mitochondrion

An organelle responsible for energy production through respiration.

Cell wall

A rigid outer layer found in plant cells that provides structure and support.

Vacuole

A storage organelle in plant cells that contains sap.

Chloroplasts

Organelles in plant cells that contain chlorophyll and are involved in photosynthesis.

Specialized Cells

Cells with adaptations that allow them to perform a specific function efficiently.

Muscle Tissue

A group of cells that work together to allow movement.

Organ system

A group of organs that work together to perform complex functions.

Directional terms

Pairs of terms used to describe the locations of body structures relative to one another.

Anterior

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

Posterior

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

Superior

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

Inferior

Describes a position below or lower than another part of the body.

Body cavities

Spaces within the body that house organs and are divided into dorsal and ventral cavities.

Circulatory system

An organ system responsible for moving blood, oxygen, and nutrients throughout the body.

Digestive system

A series of organs that break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste.

Nervous system

An organ system that sends signals throughout the body to control actions and processes.

Reproductive system

An organ system involved in producing offspring.

Respiratory system

An organ system that facilitates breathing and gas exchange.