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

• A. Anatomy and physiology both refer to the study of diseases in the human body.
• B. Anatomy focuses on chemical reactions, while physiology focuses on genetic inheritance.
• 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 refers to the study of the functions and processes of the body, such as how organs work and interact.
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 both refer to the study of diseases in the human body' is incorrect because neither term specifically focuses on diseases.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the second option, 'Anatomy focuses on chemical reactions, while physiology focuses on genetic inheritance.' This is incorrect because anatomy does not focus on chemical reactions, and physiology encompasses more than just genetic inheritance.
4. Step 4: Compare the remaining two options. 'Anatomy is the study of body structure, while physiology is the study of body function' aligns with the correct definitions of the terms. The other option, 'Anatomy is the study of body function, while physiology is the study of body structure,' reverses the definitions and is therefore incorrect.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the option that accurately reflects the definitions: 'Anatomy is the study of body structure, while physiology is the study of body function.'