V Flashcards
Vaccine
A preparation containing mild or dead pathogenic microorganism to stimulate the production of antibodies and give immunity.
Vaccination
giving a vaccine to provide immunity.
Vacuole
Fluid-filled sac containing cell sap present in most plant cells.
Vagina
A tube leading from the uterus to the outside. it receives erect penis during sexual intercourse and is the birth canal.
Variation
Differences between individuals in features that may show continuous variation and discontinuous variation.
Vasoconstriction
Contraction of muscles in arterioles to reduce blood flow through capillaries.
Vasodilation
Relaxation of muscles in arterioles that increases blood flow through capillaries.
Vein
A blood vessel through which blood travels towards the heart.
Ventricle
The lower, more muscular chamber of the heart. In mammals, the right ventricle pumps blood to the lungs and the left ventricle pumps blood to the rest of the body.
Vertebrate
An animal with a backbone.
Vesicles
Small cell structure surrounded by membrane that contains substances made by cells, such as enzymes or neurotransmitters.
Villus (Villi)
Tiny, finger-like projection from the wall of the small intestine. Villi increase the surface area of the small intestine for absorption of digested food.
Virus
A microorganism that cannot be seen under a light microscope. Smaller than bacteria, they consist of nucleic acid (e.g. DNA) surrounded by a protein coat. They can reproduce only inside living cells.
Vitamin
A micronutrient, needed in small amounts in the diet. If not enough is provided in a diet a deficiency disease can result.
Voluntary action
An action that we decide to make.
