Chapter 1: Introduction to Physiology Vocabulary

Flashcards covering key vocabulary from Chapter 1: Introduction to Physiology, including structural organization, organ systems, energy, information flow, and homeostasis.

Physiology

Study of the function of the body, often focusing on the cellular and molecular level.

Principle of Complementarity

Function always reflects structure; what a structure can do depends on its specific form.

Chemical Level

The level of structural organization that includes atoms, molecules, and organelles.

Cellular Level

The level of structural organization consisting of cells, the basic units of life.

Tissue Level

The level of structural organization where groups of similar cells form tissues.

Organ Level

The level of structural organization where two or more types of tissues form an organ.

Organ System Level

The level of structural organization where organs work closely together to perform a function.

Organismal Level

The level of structural organization representing all organ systems working together.

Circulatory System

Transports materials between all cells of the body via the heart, blood vessels, and blood.

Digestive System

Converts food into particles that can be transported into the body; eliminates some wastes through the stomach, intestine, liver, and pancreas.

Endocrine System

Coordinates body function through synthesis and release of regulatory molecules via glands like the thyroid and adrenal glands.

Immune System

Defends against foreign invaders via the thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes.

Integumentary System

Provides protection from the external environment via the skin.

Musculoskeletal System

Provides support and movement through skeletal muscles and bone.

Nervous System

Coordinates body function through electrical signals and release of regulatory molecules; includes the brain and spinal cord.

Reproductive System

Perpetuates the species via ovaries, uterus, and testes.

Respiratory System

Enables exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the internal and external environments via lungs and airways.

Urinary System

Maintains water and solute balance in the internal environment; removes wastes via the kidneys and bladder.

Enzymes

Proteins that speed up chemical reactions.

Signal molecules and receptor proteins

Bind signal molecules and also act as pumps, filters, motors, and transporters.

Compartmentation

Allows cells and tissues to specialize and isolate functions.

Homeostasis

Maintenance of relatively stable internal conditions despite continuous changes in environment; a dynamic state of equilibrium.

Receptor

Receives the stimulus related to a change in homeostatic conditions.

Control Center

Processes the signal from a receptor and sends instructions to an effector.

Effector

Carries out instructions from the control center to elicit a response.

Negative Feedback

Response reduces or shuts off the original stimulus; variable changes in opposite direction of initial change.

Positive Feedback

Response enhances or exaggerates the original stimulus.

Homeostatic Imbalance

Disturbance of homeostasis; increases risk of disease and contributes to changes associated with aging.