Unit 3 Lesson 8: Models Versus Actual Body Systems Flashcards
What is the defintion of a model
a representation of something based on data and observations that is used by scientists to help predict the behavior of complex systems, especially those that are too small or too large to work with directly
Why are models used a lot in scince
Models are often used in science when the real object is too large, too complicated, or not readily available.
What does periosteum mean
a layer of connective tissue that surrounds and protects a bone
What is the advantage of using a model?
Models are a representation of what an object actually looks like. Scientists can use models for their research without destroying the real thing.
What is a limitation of using a photograph as a model when studying body systems?
The photo might only focus on one body system and, therefore, does not indicate how that one system relates to the others within the organism. Also, the photograph does not allow for someone to touch and feel the organs.
Besides being too large or too small to work with directly, what are some other factors that would make the use of a model better than using the real system?
The real system could be very expensive to reach or grow. The real system could be difficult to work with or control in a lab setting. The real system could be very rare, and, therefore, it would be better to not disturb it or risk losing it. The real system could be dangerous to reach or too far away to reach, such as objects in space.
How would a model of the skeletal system compare to that of a real skeleton?
The model of the skeletal system shows where the bones are located but most likely does not reveal details about each of the bones, specifically the insides of the bones. Additionally, a model might be smaller than a normal skeleton.
What is the humerus
It’s this bone, the bone between the shoulder and the elbow.
real bone vs model bone
a real skeleton is much bigger than this model, but take a look. A real skeleton is made of living tissue, collagen and calcium to be exact. Believe it or not, real bones are much stronger and more flexible than plastic.
Structure of bones
Actual bone has a much more complex structure than this model shows. Real bone is surrounded by dense connective tissue called the periosteum, which contains blood vessels. Under the periosteum is hard, compact bone. And under that bone is spongy matter which is like honeycomb. The spaces between the honeycomb material are filled with fluid called bone marrow cells, which make both blood and fat. Because real bone contains blood vessels and bone marrow, it has more functions than simply providing an interior framework for the body. It also contains stem cells that produce blood cells, as well as cells that make up the immune system.
Which joints can be found at either end of the humerus?
The top end of the humerus is attached at the shoulder and the bottom end is found at the elbow.
Why is a model of the skeletal system useful when showing a patient where a bone may be broken?
In this case, the patient only needs to know where they broke their bone and not specific details about the bone. Showing them on a model will provide all the information they need in order to get an idea where the break occurred.
How accurate is a plastic model of the skeletal system for describing the formation of red blood cells in the human body?
A plastic model is not very accurate for describing the formation of red blood cells because the bones of the model are hollow and lack the necessary cells to make blood.
Where is periosteum located
The periosteum is the layer of tissue that surrounds the outside of a bone and the medullary canal is the channel in the center of the bone that contains the marrow.
One of the big concerns of using models is their lack of accuracy. How can technology be used to make a model that reduces this limitation?
Technology today is very advanced. To make an accurate model would require the designer to have a deep understanding of the body system as well as access to the real organs. Digital images of each organ can be taken from many different angles and views (interior and exterior) and then entered into a computer to be digitally reproduced. This would make a 3D model that shows the needed textures and accurate shapes of the organs.
