Chapter 1: The Human Body: An Orientation

Vocabulary flashcards covering anatomical subdivisions, physiological principles, levels of structural organization, necessary life functions, survival needs, and homeostatic control mechanisms from Chapter 1.

Anatomy

The study of the structure of body parts and their relationship to one another.

Physiology

The study of the function of body parts, examining how they work to carry out life-sustaining activities.

Gross Anatomy (Macroscopic Anatomy)

The study of large, visible structures in the body.

Regional Anatomy

A subdivision of gross anatomy that looks at all structures within a particular area of the body.

System Anatomy

A subdivision of gross anatomy that focuses on just one organ system at a time (such as the cardiovascular, nervous, or muscular system).

Surface Anatomy

A subdivision of gross anatomy that studies internal structures as they relate to the overlying skin, such as visible muscle masses or superficial veins.

Microscopic Anatomy

The branch of anatomy that deals with structures too small to be seen with the naked eye.

Developmental Anatomy

The study of anatomical and physiological development throughout the entire lifespan.

Levels of Structural Organization

The structural hierarchy of the human body, progressing from the chemical level to the cellular level, tissue level, organ level, organ system level, and organismal level.

Responsiveness

The ability of an organism to sense and respond to changes (stimuli) in the environment, such as the withdrawal reflex or breathing rate adjustments.

Digestion

The breakdown of ingested foodstuffs into simple molecules, followed by their absorption into the blood.

Metabolism

All chemical reactions that occur within body cells, representing the sum of catabolism (breakdown) and anabolism (synthesis).

Excretion

The removal of wastes from the body resulting from metabolism and digestion, such as urea, carbon dioxide, and feces.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of relatively stable internal conditions despite continuous changes in the environment; represents a dynamic state of equilibrium.

Homeostatic Control System

Keeps the body in homeostasis.

3 major parts: Receptor, Control center, Effector

Receptor (Sensor)

A homeostatic control component that monitors the environment and detects changes (stimuli) in controlled variables.

Control Center

receives input from receptors, and determines an appropriate response.

Effector

A body structure that receives output from the control center and provides the means to respond, either reducing the stimulus (negative feedback) or enhancing it (positive feedback).

Negative Feedback

Reduces or shuts off original stimulus.

ex Regulation of body temp and regulation of blood glucose

Positive Feedback

Enhances or exaggerates the original stimulus until completion of process

Ex. Platelet plugging when cut open to seal wound.

Homeostatic Imbalance

A disturbance in the body's internal dynamic equilibrium that increases the risk of disease