Chapter 1 A&P Flashcards
Anatomy
the study of the structure of body parts and their relationships to one another
Physiology
the study of the function of the body’s structural machinery
Gross Anatomy
study of structures that can be seen with the naked eye
Histology
(microscopic anatomy)—examination of tissues with microscope
Histopathology
microscopic examination of tissues for signs of disease
Cytology
study of structure and function of cells; fine detail (ultrastructure) may be resolved using an electron microscope
Organism
a single, complete individual
Organ system
group of organs with a unique collective function; for example: circulation, respiration, digestion
Organ
-structure composed of two or more tissue types that work together to carry out a function
-An organ has defined anatomical boundaries; can have organs withing organs
Tissue
similar cells and cell products forming a discrete region of an organ and performs a specific function
Cell
smallest unit to carry out all basic functions of life
Organelle
structure within a cell that carry out a function
Molecule
-particle composed of two or more atoms
-Largest molecules (proteins, fats, DNA) called macromolecules
Atom
smallest particle with unique chemical identity
Molecular Level
enzymes break food molecules into smaller units
Cellular Level
cells produce enzymes and take up nutrients derived from food
Tissue Level
groups of cells form layers that mediate protection, absorption, contraction
Organ Level
regulation of absorption, movement, etc. via interaction with multiple systems (endocrine, nervous, circulatory, etc).
Molecular structural and functional complexity
-Higher levels of structure allow for unique complex functions
-Isolated atoms such as carbon and hydrogen do not have biological functions
-Atoms are the building blocks of molecules
-The bond between carbon and hydrogen stores energy that can be used by cells
-Molecules containing multiple bonds between atoms such as carbon and hydrogen provide complex functions
-Energy and building block storage (example: food)
-Cell and tissue structure (example: cell membranes)
-“Molecular machines” (example receptors and enzymes)
-Information storage (example: genes comprised of DNA)
Integumentary system
-Forms the external body covering
-Composed of the skin, sweat glands, oil glands, hair, and nails
-Protects deep tissues from injury
-Synthesizes vitamin D
Skeletal system
-Composed of bone, cartilage, and ligaments
-Protects and supports body organs
-Provides the framework for muscles
-Site of blood cell formation
-Stores minerals
Muscular system
-Composed of muscles and tendons
-Allows manipulation of the environment, locomotion, and facial expression
-Maintains posture
-Produces heat
Nervous System
-Composed of the brain, spinal column, and nerves
-Is the fast-acting control system of the body
-Responds to stimuli by activating muscles and glands
Cardiovascular (circulatory) System
-Composed of the heart and blood vessels
-The heart pumps blood
-The blood vessels transport blood throughout the body
Lymphatic (lymphoid) system
-Composed of red bone marrow, thymus, spleen, lymph nodes, and lymphatic vessels
-Picks up fluid leaked from blood vessels and returns it to blood
-Disposes of debris in the lymphatic stream
-Houses white blood cells involved with immunity