Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Vocabulary

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on Chapter 1 to Chapter 5 covering the structural hierarchy of the body, anatomical positions, anatomical planes, and directional terminology.

Anatomy

The study of the structure of body parts.

Physiology

The study describing how body parts come together to function.

Red blood cell

One of the smallest cells in the human body, measuring about $5\,\mu m$ (five micrometers) across.

Motor neuron

A single cell running from the big toe to the bottom of the spine, measuring about a meter from end to end.

Tissues

Groups of similar cells that form the next level of body organization, including muscles, membranes, cavity linings, nervous tissue, and connective tissue.

Organs

Structures formed when two or more tissue types combine to perform specific functions to keep the body running.

Organ systems

Groups of organs that work together and combine to perform complex functions within the body.

Homeostasis

The ability of all living systems to maintain stable internal conditions regardless of external changes.

Classic anatomical position

The standard reference position where the body is erect and facing straight ahead with arms at the sides and palms forward.

Sagittal plane

A vertical plane that comes down to divide a body or organ into left and right parts.

Parasagittal plane

A plane parallel to the sagittal plane but situated off to one side.

Coronal plane

A vertical plane that splits everything into front and back parts; also called the frontal plane.

Transverse plane

A plane that divides the body into top and bottom parts; also called the horizontal plane.

Axial parts

Body structures located in line with the center axis of the body, including the head, neck, and trunk.

Appendicular parts

Body structures consisting of limbs or appendages (arms and legs) that attach to the body's axis.

Anterior

Referring to features located at the front of the body; also referred to as ventral.

Posterior

Referring to features located at the back of the body; also referred to as dorsal.

Superior

Features positioned toward the top of the body; also referred to as cranial.

Inferior

Features located lower down on the body; also referred to as caudal.

Medial

Describing structures located toward the midline running down the center axis of the body.

Lateral

Describing structures located farther away from the central midline of the body.

Proximal

Describing areas of the limbs that are closer to the center of the trunk or axial line.

Distal

Describing areas of the limbs that are farther away from the center of the trunk or axial line.