Human Anatomy

Chapter 1: Terminology

Human Anatomy and Physiology

  • Human Anatomy: Refers to the structure of the body and its parts.
  • Human Physiology: Refers to the function of the body and its parts.
  • Note: Structure determines function. An understanding of physiological concepts requires a strong knowledge of both microscopic and macroscopic anatomy.

Levels of Organization

  • Understanding anatomy and physiology (A & P) necessitates a focus on the body as a whole and its interconnected systems. The course begins with the introduction of basic terminology and moves onto the chemical organization of the body.
  • Subsequent chapters will explore levels of organization including:
      - Cellular Level: Study of cells, the basic unit of life.
      - Tissue Level: Study of tissues, groups of cells working together.
      - Organ Level: Study of organs, groups of tissues functioning together.
      - Organ Systems Level: Study of organ systems, groups of organs working together.
      - Organism Level: Entire living being made up of interconnected systems.
Definitions of Terms
  • Atom: The smallest unit of matter that combines to form chemicals.
  • Chemical: A substance with a distinct molecular composition.
  • Organelle: Structural units within cells that serve specific functions.
  • Cell: The basic structural unit of living organisms.
  • Tissue: A group of cells working together to perform a specific function.
  • Organ: A group of tissues working together to perform a specific function.
  • Organ System: A group of organs working together to perform a specific function.
  • Organism: A group of systems working together to maintain life.
Understanding Levels of Organization
  • In A & P, it is crucial to understand what each term means and to be able to define these terms using personal wording along with examples.
  • Examples for Practice: Identify the level of organization for the following terms:
      - Blood: Organism
      - Na+ (Sodium ion): Atom
      - Nervous System: Organ system
      - Stomach: Organ
      - Bone Tissue: Tissue
      - Femur: Organ
      - H₂O (Water): Chemical
      - Neuron: Cell
      - Protein: Chemical (or molecule)
      - Spinal Cord: Organ
      - Lymphatic System: Organ system
      - Ribosome: Organelle
      - Mitochondrion: Organelle
      - Endocrine System: Organ system
      - White Blood Cell: Cell
      - Human: Organism