Skip to main content
Back

Anatomy & Physiology Chapters 2-4 Key Concepts

Control buttons has been changed to "navigation" mode.
1/20

Terms in this set (20)

  • What is the basic unit of life in anatomy and physiology?
    The cell is the basic structural and functional unit of life.
  • Name the four main types of tissue in the human body.
    Epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues.
  • What is the primary function of epithelial tissue?
    To cover body surfaces and line cavities, providing protection and absorption.
  • Define homeostasis in physiology.
    The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.
  • What organelle is known as the 'powerhouse of the cell'?
    The mitochondrion, which produces ATP through cellular respiration.
  • Describe the structure of the plasma membrane.
    A phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that controls substance movement in and out of the cell.
  • What is the function of connective tissue?
    To support, bind, and protect other tissues and organs.
  • Name the three types of muscle tissue.
    Skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle tissues.
  • What is the role of the nucleus in a cell?
    It contains DNA and controls cell activities.
  • Explain the difference between passive and active transport.
    Passive transport requires no energy and moves substances down their concentration gradient; active transport requires energy to move substances against the gradient.
  • What is osmosis?
    The diffusion of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane.
  • Define the term 'organ system'.
    A group of organs that work together to perform a specific function.
  • What is the function of the ribosome?
    To synthesize proteins by translating mRNA.
  • Describe the role of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER).
    The rough ER synthesizes proteins; the smooth ER synthesizes lipids and detoxifies substances.
  • What is the extracellular matrix?
    A network of proteins and carbohydrates outside cells that provides structural and biochemical support.
  • Name the phases of the cell cycle.
    Interphase (G1, S, G2 phases) and mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).
  • What is the function of lysosomes?
    To digest and remove waste materials and cellular debris.
  • Explain the difference between mitosis and meiosis.
    Mitosis produces two identical diploid cells; meiosis produces four genetically diverse haploid cells.
  • What is the role of collagen in connective tissue?
    To provide strength and structural support.
  • Define anatomical position.
    Body standing upright, facing forward, arms at sides with palms facing forward.