BIOLOGICAL ORGANIZATION + SURFACE ANATOMY Flashcards
What is Biology?
The scientific study of life and living organisms.
Define Anatomy.
The study of body structure.
What is Gross Anatomy?
Study of structures visible to the naked eye.
What does Comparative Anatomy involve?
Comparing structures of different species to understand evolutionary relationships.
Define Physiology.
The study of body functions and mechanisms.
What is Comparative Physiology?
Examines how different species solve biological problems like respiration and circulation.
What is Embryology?
The study of the development of an organism from fertilization to birth.
Define Histology.
The microscopic study of tissues, including their structure, composition, and function.
What does Pathology study?
The study of diseases, focusing on structural and functional changes caused by illnesses.
List the fundamental characteristics of living organisms.
- Cellular organization
- Biochemical unity
- Metabolism
- Responsiveness
- Development
- Reproduction
What are unicellular organisms?
Single-celled organisms that directly interact with their environment.
What are multicellular organisms?
Organisms that consist of billions or trillions of cells and require complex systems for communication, energy exchange, and survival.
What is a unique characteristic of humans?
Large brain-to-body weight ratio supporting higher cognitive functions.
S Shaped Spine
Opposable Thumb
Articulated speech
Stereoscopic Vision
List the chemical elements that make up 96% of human body mass.
- Oxygen (O)
- Carbon (C)
- Hydrogen (H)
- Nitrogen (N)
What is the smallest unit of matter?
Atom.
What is a molecule?
Chemical combinations of atoms.
Biological Organisation
Atoms > Molecules > Cells>Tissues> Organs> Organ Systems>Organism
Define tissue.
Groups of similar cells working together for a specific function.
List the four main types of tissue.
- Epithelial Tissue
- Connective Tissue
- Muscle Tissue
- Nervous Tissue
What is an organ?
Structures composed of multiple tissue types that perform specific functions.
Define organ system.
Groups of organs that work together to maintain homeostasis.
What is the Integumentary System?
Includes skin, hair, nails, sweat glands, sebaceous glands.
List the functions of the Integumentary System.
- Protects the body from environmental damage
- Regulates body temperature
- Produces vitamin D
- Sensory reception
What does the Skeletal System include?
Bones, cartilage, ligaments, joints.