Anatomy and Physiology Flashcards

Flashcards for Anatomy and Physiology vocabulary.

Anatomy

The study of the structure of an organism.

Physiology

The study of how an organism's body functions.

Developmental Anatomy

Changes in the human body during growth from child to adult.

Embryology

Study of anatomy during first 8 weeks after conception.

Surface Anatomy

Using touch on the outside of the body to study anatomy.

Regional Anatomy

Specialized focus on one portion of the body.

Gross Anatomy

A general overview of large portions of the body at one time.

Microscopic Anatomy

Specialized focus on cells and tissues only seen with a microscope.

Systematic Anatomy

Studying one body system at a time.

Skeletal System

Provides support and protection, gives body shape.

Nervous System

Detects impulses from the senses; control center.

Circulatory System

Transports nutrients and gases around the body.

Respiratory System

Exchanges gases (oxygen & CO2).

Digestive System

Breaks down and absorbs food.

Muscular System

Provides movement for all parts of the body.

Integumentary System

Protects the body, regulates temperature, and prevents water loss.

Lymphatic System

Fights infection and provides fluid for cells.

Excretory System

Removes waste from the blood.

Endocrine System

Secretes hormones.

Reproductive System

Produces cells used in sexual reproduction.

Maintaining boundaries

Lets some substances in and keeps others out.

Movement

Internal movement and ability to move through surroundings.

Responsiveness

Sensing and reacting to changes in environment.

Digestion

Breaking down and absorbing nutrients.

Metabolism

Building larger molecules from small ones (anabolism) and breaking down of larger molecules into smaller ones (catabolism).

Excretion

Removal of wastes.

Reproduction

Production of offspring.

Growth

Increase in cell size or overall body size.

Anatomical Position

Body is straight with feet slightly apart and thumbs pointed away from the body.

Directional Terms

Help anatomists compare the location of one body structure to another.

Dorsal Body Cavity

Encloses the brain and spinal cord.

Ventral Body Cavity

Protects the visceral organs; divided into thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic cavities.

Serosa

Double-layered membrane lining the ventral body cavities.