Unit 1 Flashcards
What is physiology
Comes from Greek Phusiologia
Means knowledge of nature
The study of the normal functioning of a living organism and its component parts
- structure and function relationships
- included chemical and physical interactions
- living organisms possess emergent properties
What are emergent properties
Properties of a system that are a result of non-linear interaction between component parts
The whole is greater then the sum of its parts
What defines whether something is alive
1) made of one or more cells
2) regulate its internal environment
3) respond to stimuli
4) capable of reproduction or self replication
What levels of organizations does physiology encompass
Molecules Cells Tissues Organs Organ systems Organisms Populations of one species
Why is physiology important
Leads to treatment of diseases in humans and other organisms (pathophysiology)
Helps us understand how organisms cope with environmental stressors
Foundation of understanding of the philosophical question what is life and how life works
What are some common themes in physiology
Structure and function are closely related (organs cells molecular interactions)
Homeostasis and control systems
Information flow coordinates body function
Need for energy
Evolution
What is homeostasis
The ability to maintain a relatively constant internal environment even when the external environment is variable
What internal environmental parameters of an animal must be regulated to within certain levels to support life
Temperature pH Salinity (concentration of ions and other solutes) Oxygen carbon dioxide Nutrients
True or false homeostasis means equilibrium and never changing
False
Internal parameters change often in response to environmental challenges
Homeostasis is the ability to maintain a relatively constant internal environment
What is a control system
Monitors and adjusts regulated variables
Internal temp ph ect
Homeostasis requires a control system
