Anatomical Terminology and Levels of Organization

A set of flashcards covering basic anatomical and physiological definitions, levels of biological organization, anatomical position, relative position terms, and body planes.

What is the definition of Anatomy based on its Greek origins?

Anatomy is the study of structures and comes from the Greek words meaning "a cutting up".

What is the definition of Physiology based on its Greek origins?

Physiology is the study of functions and comes from the Greek words meaning "relationship to nature".

In biological study, how is structure transitionally related to function?

Structure is always related to function.

List the levels of organization from simplest to most complex as shown in Fig. 1.03.

Atom, Molecule, Macromolecule, Organelle, Cell, Tissue, Organ, Organ system, Organism.

Describe the standard Anatomical Position.

Standing erect, facing forward, upper limbs at the sides, palms facing forward.

Define the relative position terms Superior and Inferior.

Superior means above or nearer to the head, while Inferior means below or further away from the head.

Define the relative position terms Anterior and Posterior, including their alternative names.

Anterior (or ventral) means in front of or nearer to the front. Posterior (or dorsal) means behind or nearer to the back.

Contrast the terms Medial and Lateral.

Medial means closer to the midline of the body, whereas Lateral means further away from the midline of the body.

Define the terms Proximal and Distal in the context of limbs.

Proximal means nearer to where a limb attaches to the body, and Distal means further away from where a limb attaches to the body.

What is the difference between External and Internal positions?

External is located on or near the surface, while Internal is located inside or further away from the surface.

What division is created by a Sagittal plane?

A Sagittal plane separates left and right portions.

What is the specific function of a Midsagittal (median) plane?

It separates left and right portions into equal parts at the center.

How do Transverse (Horizontal) planes divide the body?

They separate the body into top and bottom portions.

What is the function of a Coronal (Frontal) plane?

It separates the body into front and back portions.