Anatomy 2 - Basics and Levels of Organization

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the anatomy & physiology lecture notes.

Anatomy

The study of the structure of the body (parts and their relationships).

Physiology

The study of how the body parts function (biological processes).

Structure and Function Relationship

Function reflects structure; the form of a part determines its role and vice versa.

Incisors

Teeth with sharp edges designed for cutting (structure enables cutting function).

Molars

Teeth with flat surfaces designed for grinding (structure enables grinding function).

Chemical Level

Involves interactions of atoms and their combinations into molecules.

Cellular Level

The smallest living units of all organisms; cells differ in structure and function.

Tissue Level

A group of cells similar in structure that perform a common function; includes epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues.

Areolar Connective Tissue

A loose connective tissue that holds organs in place and provides support.

Organ Level

An structure composed of two or more tissue types that performs a specific function.

Organ System

A group of organs that work together to perform a common function.

Organism

The complete living being.

Macromolecule

A large molecule formed from smaller subunits (monomers), such as proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and lipids.

Organelle

A specialized subcellular structure that performs a specific function.

Atom

The smallest unit of matter that participates in chemical reactions; composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Molecule

Two or more atoms bound together by chemical bonds.

Cell

The smallest living unit of life; basic unit of structure and function; many cell types exist with different roles.

Monomer

A small molecule that can join with others to form polymers.

Dimer

Two monomers joined together.

Dehydration Synthesis

A chemical reaction where monomers join to form a polymer with release of water.

Hydrolysis

A chemical reaction that breaks bonds by adding water.

Digestive System

Ingests nutrients, breaks them down, and eliminates unabsorbed matter (feces).

Respiratory System

Brings in oxygen and eliminates carbon dioxide.

Cardiovascular System

Distributes oxygen and nutrients via blood and removes wastes; circulates throughout the body.

Urinary System

Eliminates nitrogenous wastes and helps regulate interstitial fluid and ions.

Integumentary System

Protects the body from the external environment.

Maintaining Boundaries

Life function of keeping internal conditions separate from the external environment (cell membrane as a boundary).

Movement

Contractility at the cellular level and movement at the organ and whole-body level.

Responsiveness (Excitability)

The ability to sense changes in the environment and respond to them.

Digestion

Breaking down ingested foods into simple molecules for absorption.

Metabolism

All chemical reactions in body cells; includes catabolism and anabolism; uses nutrients and oxygen to produce ATP.

Excretion

Removal of wastes and excess materials from the body.

Reproduction

Cellular level: cell division; Organismal level: production of offspring.

Growth and Differentiation

Growth is an increase in size; differentiation is the specialization of cells for specific functions.

Nutrients

Dietary substances that provide energy and building blocks for growth and maintenance.

Oxygen

Essential for energy-producing chemical reactions (oxidation) in cells.

Water

Liquid that serves as a solvent and medium for body processes;base for secretions.

Normal Body Temperature

Typically around 98.6°F (37°C); required for proper biochemical reactions.

Atmospheric Pressure

The force that air exerts on the body at the surface.