Which of the following best describes the difference between anatomy and physiology?

• A. Anatomy and physiology are both concerned only with microscopic structures.
• B. Anatomy studies the chemical reactions in the body, while physiology studies the bones.
• C. Anatomy focuses on disease processes, while physiology focuses on medical treatments.
• D. Anatomy studies the structure of body parts, while physiology studies their functions.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the definitions of anatomy and physiology. Anatomy is the study of the structure and organization of body parts, while physiology is the study of the functions and processes of those body parts.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the question. Eliminate choices that are clearly incorrect based on the definitions. For example, anatomy and physiology are not limited to microscopic structures, nor does anatomy focus solely on chemical reactions or disease processes.
3. Step 3: Focus on the correct relationship between anatomy and physiology. Anatomy deals with the physical structure (e.g., organs, tissues, bones), while physiology explains how these structures work and interact (e.g., muscle contraction, nerve signaling).
4. Step 4: Compare the correct answer to the other options. The correct answer aligns with the definitions: 'Anatomy studies the structure of body parts, while physiology studies their functions.'
5. Step 5: Reinforce the distinction by considering examples. For instance, studying the shape and location of the heart is anatomy, while understanding how the heart pumps blood is physiology.