Key Terms Flashcards
The study of the structure of the body and its parts
Anatomy
The study of the function of the body and how its parts work together
Physiology
The body’s ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions
Homeostasis
The basic structural and functional unit of living organisms
Cell
A group of similar cells that perform a specific function
Tissue
A structure made up of two or more types of tissues that perform a specific function in the body
Organ
A group of organs that work together to perform major functions or meet physiological needs
Organ system
All of the chemical reactions that occur within the body, including catabolism and anabolism
Metabolism
Breaking down molecules
Catabolism
Building up molecules
Anabolism
The outer boundary of the cell that controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell
Cell Membrane
The fluid inside of the cell, where most of the cell’s metabolic reactions occur
Cytoplasm
Organelles in the cell responsible for producing energy (ATP) through respiration
Mitochondria
The control center of the cell that contains DNA and regulates gene expression
Nucleus
Tissue that covers the body surfaces, lines body cavities, and forms glands
Epithelial Tissue
Tissue that supports, protects, and binds other tissues together (e.g., bone, blood, cartilage)
Connective Tissue
Tissue responsible for movement, which includes skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle types
Muscle Tissue
Tissue that transmits electrical impulses and processes information in the brain and nervous system
Nervous Tissue
A nerve cell that transmits electrical signals throughout the body
Neuron
The junction between two neurons where signals are transmitted
Synapse
A rapid electrical signal that travels along the membrane of a neuron or muscle fiber
Action Potential
Chemical messengers released by glands that regulate various functions of the body
Hormones
The part of the skeleton that includes the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage
Axial Skeleton
The part of the skeleton that includes the limbs, shoulders, and pelvic
Appendicular Skeleton
A connective tissue that connects bone to bone
Ligament
A connective tissue that connects muscle to bone
Tendon
The functional unit of a muscle fiber responsible for contraction
Sarcomere
The molecule that provides energy for cellular processes
Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)
The system that circulates blood through the body, consisting of the heart, blood vessels, and blood.
Cardiovascular system
A system of glands that secrete hormones to regulate bodily functions
Endocrine System
The system responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste
Digestive system
The system that removes waste from the blood and regulates water and electrolytes balance
Urinary System
The system consisting of the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands
Integumentary System
The system responsible for gas exchange between the air and the bloodstream, including the lungs and airways
Respiratory System
