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Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology & Study Of A&P

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Terms in this set (20)

  • What is anatomy?

    Anatomy is the study of the structure of body parts and their relationships to one another. It includes gross (macroscopic) and microscopic anatomy.

  • What is physiology?

    Physiology is the study of the function of body structures, including bones, muscles, and neurophysiology.

  • What does the complementarity of structure and function mean?

    The function of a body part depends on its structure. If the structure is damaged, the function is impaired. Example: the small intestine's folds increase surface area for nutrient absorption.

  • List the levels of organization in human anatomy and physiology.

    Atoms, small molecules, macromolecules, cells, tissues, organs, organ systems, organism.

  • What is a tissue?

    A group of cells similar in structure and function.

  • What is an organ?

    A structure composed of two or more tissue types that performs a specific function for the body.

  • What is an organ system?

    A group of organs that act together to perform a particular body function.

  • How many organ systems are there in the human body?

    There are 11 organ systems in the human body, all highly interrelated.

  • Define sex at the molecular/cellular level.

    Chromosomal sex is defined by genetics/DNA, such as XX or XY chromosomes.

  • Define sex at the organ/organ system level.

    Gonadal sex is defined by possession of primary sex organs (ovaries, testes).

  • What is anatomical sex?

    Anatomical sex is defined by external anatomy, such as genitalia.

  • What is gender (gender identity)?

    Gender is a personal sense of which sex one belongs to, which may or may not correspond with chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomical sex.

  • What does transgender mean?

    Individuals whose gender identity does not fully correspond with their biological sex.

  • What does cisgender mean?

    Individuals whose gender identity corresponds with their biological sex.

  • Give an example of female sex characteristics at different levels.

    Chromosomal sex: XX; Gonadal sex: ovaries; Anatomical sex: female external genitalia.

  • Give an example of male sex characteristics at different levels.

    Chromosomal sex: XY; Gonadal sex: testes; Anatomical sex: male external genitalia.

  • Why is understanding anatomy and physiology important for pathology?

    Understanding normal structure and function is necessary to understand dysfunction and disease (pathology).

  • What is the major function of the small intestine?

    Absorption of ingested nutrients into the body.

  • How does the structure of the small intestine relate to its function?

    Folds in the intestinal lining increase surface area (~250 m2) to maximize nutrient absorption.

  • What is the building block of all living things?

    The cell is the basic building block of all living things.