Chapter 1 - Human Anatomy and Physiology: An Overview Vocabulary Flashcards
Activation energy
The amount of energy required to start a reaction
Acids
Electrolytes that dissociate in water to release hydrogen ions
Anatomic planes
Imaginary surfaces used as references to identify parts of the body
Anatomic position
The position of reference in which the patient stands facing you, arms at the side, with the palms of the hands forward
Anion
An ion that contains an overall negative charge
Atomic number
A whole number representing the number of positively charged protons in the nucleus of an atom
Atomic weight
The total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom
Atoms
The smallest complete unit of an element that have the element’s properties; they vary in size, weight, and interactions with other atoms
Bases
Electrolytes that release ions that bind with hydrogen ions
Carbohydrates
Substances (including sugars and starches) that provide much of the energy required by the body’s cells, as well as helping to build cell structures
Catalyst
Atoms or molecules that can change the rate of a reaction without being consumed during the process
Cation
An ion that contains an overall positive charge
Chemistry
The study of the composition of matter and changes in its composition
Compounds
Molecules made up of different bonded atoms
Covalent bond
A chemical bond were Atoms complete their outer electron shells by sharing electrons
Decomposition reaction
A reaction that occurs when bonds with a reactant molecule break, forming simpler atoms, molecules, or ions
Distal
Farther from the trunk or near to the free end of an extremity
Dorsal
The posterior surface of the body, including the back of the hand
Electrolytes
Salt or acid substances that become ionic conductors when dissolved in a solvent (water); chemicals dissolved in the blood
Electrons
Single, negatively charged particles that revolve around the nucleus of an atom
Elements
Fundamental substances, such as carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, that compose matter
Enzymes
Substances designed to speed up the rate of the specific biochemical reactions
Exchange reaction
A chemical reaction where parts of the reacting molecules are shuffled around to produce new products
Extension
The bending of a joint resulting in the distal segment moving away from the proximal segment. Typically resulting in straightening of the limb at the joint.
External rotation
Rotating an extremity at its joint away from the midline
Flexion
The bending of a joint resulting in the distal segment moving towards the proximal segment
Fowler position
The position in which the patient is sitting up with the knees bent or straight.
Frontal (Coronal) plane
An imaginary plane dividing the body into anterior and posterior your halves
Gross anatomy
The study of the body parts that are visible to the naked eye, such as bones, muscles, and organs.
Homeostasis
A tendency to constancy or stability and the body’s internal environment