Chapter 11 - Becoming human Flashcards
Homo Sapiens
The Species name for modern humans
Taxon (pl. taxa)
a unit of biological classification into which related organisms are classified. Taxa are arranged in a hierarchical rank from kingdom down to species, where members of a specific taxon typically share certain morphological characteristics
Mammals
warm-blooded vertebrates belonging to the taxonomic class Mammalia that have mammary glands, hair/fur, three middle ear bones, and one lower jawbone
Primates
the highest order of mammals, comprised of about 400 different living species who share a number of features including opposable digits and binocular vision
hominoids
members of the superfamily Hominoidea that includes apes and humans
Hominins
members of the taxonomic tribe hominini that includes modern humans and our upright-walking ancestors
cranium
the part of the skull that covers the brain
prehensile
the ability to grasp objects
opposable digit
a digit (either the thumb, big toe, or both) that is able to touch all the other digits on the same appendage
precision grip
a type of grip involving the tips of the thumb and finger, used by primates (to varying extents) for precise manipulation of objects of various sizes
power grip
a type of grip involving the palm and fingers, used by primates (to varying extents) for moving and manipulating objects. The power grip generates more force due to the significant use of the palm
canine teeth
a type of tooth in mammals that is relatively long and pointed
foramen magnum
the hole in the base of the skull through which the spinal cord passes. A more centralised foramen magnum indicates bipedal locomotion
Brow ridge
a bony ridge above the eye sockets. It is found in all primates, but is greatly reduced in Homo sapiens
Sagittal crest
a ridge of hard bone running lengthwise (front to back) along the top of the skull. A pronounced sagittal crest indicates strong jaw muscles.