Human Anatomy and Physiology Overview

Questions and Answers

What is the scientific study of the body's structure called?

human anatomy

What does cytology study?

cells

What type of anatomy focuses on large structures that can be seen without a microscope?

gross anatomy

What is the name of the feedback mechanism that reverses deviation from a setpoint?

negative feedback Signup and view all the answers

What term describes a state of dynamic stability of the body's internal conditions?

homeostasis Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a level of organization in the body?

Energy Signup and view all the answers

The anatomical position refers to the body's orientation where the face is down.

False Signup and view all the answers

Match the following anatomical terms with their definitions:

Anterior = Describes the front of the body Posterior = Describes the back of the body Superior = Describes a position above the body Inferior = Describes a position below the body Signup and view all the answers

The ______ theory states that life originated from non-living things.

spontaneous generation or abiogenesis Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a basic characteristic of living organisms?

Growth Signup and view all the answers

What are the three types of properties of protoplasm?

Physical properties, Chemical properties, Physiological properties Signup and view all the answers

What component of living cells facilitates gas diffusion?

protoplasm Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Human Anatomy

Scientific study of the body's structure, divided into microscopic and gross anatomy.
Microscopic Anatomy: Requires a microscope; includes:
- Cytology: Study of cells.
- Histology: Study of tissues.
Gross Anatomy: Examines larger structures visible to the naked eye.
- Regional Anatomy: Focuses on specific body regions.
- Systemic Anatomy: Studies systems comprising various structures.

Physiology

Study of chemistry and physics concerning body structures.
Form and function are intrinsically linked.

Evolution and Homeostasis

Evolution: Involves changes in gene expression over time.
Homeostasis: Dynamic balance of internal body conditions, characterized by:
- Setpoint: Normal range for physiological values.
- Negative Feedback: Mechanism to reverse deviations from setpoints.
- Positive Feedback: Amplifies changes in physiological conditions.

Levels of Organization

Matter comprises elements, which are the fundamental substances.
Atoms: Smallest unit of a pure substance.
Molecules: Chemical building blocks formed by atoms.
Cell: Basic life unit, containing organelles.
Tissue: Group of similar cells working towards a function.
Organ: Composed of two or more tissue types.
Organ System: Group of organs working collectively.

Anatomical Terminology

Anatomical Position: Standardized stance for reference.
- Prone: Face-down position.
- Supine: Face-up position.
Directional Terms:
- Anterior: Front of the body.
- Posterior: Back of the body.
- Superior: Above or higher position.
- Inferior: Below or lower position.
- Lateral: Toward the side.
- Medial: Toward the middle.
- Superficial: Closer to the body surface.
- Deep: Further from the surface.
- Proximal: Closer to limb attachment.
- Distal: Further from limb attachment.

Sections and Planes

Section: Slice of a three-dimensional structure.
Plane: Imaginary line for imaging purposes:
- Sagittal Plane: Divides body into right and left sides.
  - Midsagittal Plane: Equal right and left halves.
  - Parasagittal Plane: Unequal right and left portions.
- Frontal Plane: Anterior and posterior division.
- Transverse Plane: Horizontal division into upper and lower sections.

Organization and Compartmentalization

Serous Membrane (Serosa): Lines thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities:
- Parietal Layer: Lines cavity walls.
- Visceral Layer: Covers organs.
- Serous Space: Thin fluid-filled space between layers.
- Pleura: Covers pleural cavity.
- Pericardium: Covers pericardial cavity.
- Peritoneum: Covers abdominopelvic cavity.

The Cellular Level of Organization

Theories of Origin of Life:
- Spontaneous Generation: Life from non-living matter.
- Biogenesis: Life arises from existing life forms.
- Cosmozoic Theory: Life originated from outer space.
- Special Creation Theory: Supernatural origins.
- Naturalistic Theory: Evolutionary processes.

Basic Characteristics of Living Organisms

Organization.
Irritability or sensitivity.
Movement.
Growth.
Reproduction.
Metabolism:
- Anabolism: Building complex substances.
- Catabolism: Breaking down complex substances.
Adaptability.

Protoplasm

Definition: Living substance within cells.
Physical Properties:
- Heterogenous, colloidal, translucent, colorless, slimy, viscous.
- Exhibits Brownian movement and the Tyndall effect.
Chemical Properties:
- Composed of various elements, can be organic or inorganic.
Physiological Properties:
- Facilitates dissolution, moisture for gas diffusion, and regulation of body temperature.
- Functions as a lubricant and protects brain and spinal cord.

Lipids

Fat-soluble compounds consisting of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (CHO).
Classification:
- Steroids: Solid alcohols.
- Simple Lipids: Contain glycerol and fatty acids.
- Complex Lipids: Structures with additional components.