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Anatomy & Physiology Core Concepts and Overview

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Terms in this set (28)

  • What is Human Anatomy?

    Human Anatomy is the study of the structure or form of the human body.

  • What is Human Physiology?

    Human Physiology is the study of the functions of the human body.

  • What are the three core study strategies for Anatomy & Physiology?

    Bring it Back, Space It Out, and Mix It Up improve retention and comprehension.

  • What is the 'Bring It Back' study technique?

    Retrieving stored information into conscious mind via self-quizzing, summarizing, diagramming, or teaching to prevent illusions of knowing.

  • Define Metabolism in living organisms.

    Metabolism is the range of chemical processes in living organisms, including anabolism (building up) and catabolism (breaking down).

  • What are the two types of metabolic processes?

    Anabolism builds larger chemicals from smaller ones; Catabolism breaks down larger chemicals into smaller ones.

  • What are the seven characteristics of living organisms?

    Cellular composition, metabolism, growth, excretion, responsiveness, movement, and reproduction.

  • What is the smallest unit of life?

    The cell is the smallest unit that carries out functions of life.

  • What are the six levels of structural organization in the human body?

    Chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, organ system, and organism levels.

  • Name the 12 major organ systems of the human body.

    Integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, male reproductive, female reproductive.

  • What is the anatomical position?

    Body standing upright, feet shoulder-width apart, arms at sides, palms and face forward; used as reference for directional terms.

  • Define the directional term 'anterior'.

    Anterior means toward the front of the body or body part.

  • What is the difference between 'proximal' and 'distal'?

    Proximal means closer to the point of origin; distal means farther from the point of origin.

  • What are the two main body regions?

    Axial region (head, neck, trunk) and appendicular region (upper and lower limbs).

  • Name the three main planes of section in the body.

    Sagittal (right and left), frontal (anterior and posterior), and transverse (superior and inferior) planes.

  • What is homeostasis?

    Body's ability to maintain a relatively stable internal environment despite external changes.

  • Describe a negative feedback loop.

    A mechanism where a change in a regulated variable triggers responses that reverse the change to maintain homeostasis.

  • Describe a positive feedback loop.

    A mechanism where effectors amplify the initial stimulus, causing rapid change, usually to complete a process quickly.

  • What is the relationship between structure and function in anatomy and physiology?

    Form follows function: the shape of a structure suits its function, seen clearly at the organ level.

  • What is a physiological gradient?

    A difference in concentration, temperature, or pressure between two connected areas that drives many physiological processes.

  • How do cells communicate to coordinate body functions?

    Through chemical messengers and electrical signals that trigger responses in other cells.

  • What is the function of serous membranes?

    They produce serous fluid to lubricate organs and reduce friction within body cavities.

  • Name the three main serous membranes and their associated cavities.

    Pleural (lungs), pericardial (heart), and peritoneal (abdominal organs) membranes.

  • What are the four quadrants of the abdominopelvic cavity?

    Right upper, left upper, right lower, and left lower quadrants.

  • What is the SQ3R method for reading an A&P textbook?

    Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review to improve comprehension and retention.

  • What is the purpose of the 'DOORS' critical thinking method?

    Describe, Overview, Other chapters, Review, and Synthesize information to solve problems.

  • What is the difference between systemic and regional anatomy?

    Systemic anatomy studies body by organ systems; regional anatomy studies specific body regions.

  • What is the function of the diaphragm muscle in body cavities?

    Separates the thoracic cavity (above) from the abdominopelvic cavity (below) and aids in breathing.