Which statement best describes the difference between anatomy and physiology?

• A. Anatomy and physiology both focus exclusively on microscopic structures.
• B. Anatomy and physiology are terms that refer only to the study of diseases.
• C. Anatomy is the study of body structure, while physiology is the study of body function.
• D. Anatomy is the study of body function, while physiology is the study of body structure.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the definitions of anatomy and physiology. Anatomy refers to the study of the structure of the body, including organs, tissues, and cells, while physiology focuses on the study of the functions and processes of these structures.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the problem. Eliminate choices that are clearly incorrect, such as 'Anatomy and physiology both focus exclusively on microscopic structures' and 'Anatomy and physiology are terms that refer only to the study of diseases,' as these statements do not accurately describe the fields.
3. Step 3: Compare the remaining options. One option states 'Anatomy is the study of body structure, while physiology is the study of body function,' which aligns with the definitions of the terms. The other option reverses the definitions, stating 'Anatomy is the study of body function, while physiology is the study of body structure,' which is incorrect.
4. Step 4: Confirm the correct answer by cross-referencing the definitions of anatomy and physiology with the statement 'Anatomy is the study of body structure, while physiology is the study of body function.' This matches the accurate description of the fields.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the statement that accurately describes anatomy as the study of body structure and physiology as the study of body function.