Anatomy & Physiology Basic Terms

A set of flashcards covering basic terms in Anatomy and Physiology, including definitions of key concepts related to body structures, functions, and physiological processes.

Homeostasis

Maintaining internal balance (like temperature, pH, fluids).

Metabolism

All chemical reactions that take place in the body to maintain life.

Cell

The basic structural and functional unit of life.

Tissue

A group of similar cells performing a specific function.

Organ

A structure composed of two or more tissue types performing a specific function.

Organ System

A group of organs working together for major body functions.

Anatomy

The study of body structures.

Physiology

The study of how the body and its parts function.

Diffusion

Movement of molecules from high concentration to low concentration.

Osmosis

Diffusion of water across a membrane.

ATP

Energy currency of the cell produced mainly in the mitochondria.

Mitochondria

Organelle responsible for energy (ATP) production.

Nucleus

Control center of the cell that contains DNA.

DNA

Genetic material that carries hereditary information.

RNA

Molecule involved in protein synthesis.

Hormone

Regulatory chemical produced by endocrine glands.

Enzyme

Protein that speeds up chemical reactions.

Neuron

Nerve cell specialized in communication.

Synapse

Junction between two neurons where signals pass.

Impulse

Electrical signal traveling along a neuron.

Artery

Blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart.

Vein

Blood vessel that carries blood toward the heart.

Capillary

Smallest blood vessel where gas and nutrient exchange occurs.

Alveoli

Air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.

Nephron

Functional unit of the kidney that filters blood.

Anterior

Front of the body.

Posterior

Back of the body.

Superior

Above another structure.

Inferior

Below another structure.

Medial

Toward the midline of the body.

Lateral

Away from the midline.

Proximal

Closer to the point of attachment.

Distal

Farther from the point of attachment.