Chapter 1 - Introduction to the Structure and Function of the Body Flashcards
(92 cards)
Dissection
A process used to isolate and study the structural components or parts of the human body
Anatomy
The study of the structure of an organism and the relationships of its parts
(derived from 2 Greek words that translate into “cutting up”)
Physiology
The study of the functions of living organisms and their parts; requires active experimentations
Scientific Method
Merely a systematic approach to discovery
Hypothesis
A reasonable guess based on previous informal observations or on previously tested explanations
Experimentation
The testing process
Control Group
The group in which receives the substitute or placebo drug
Test Group
The group in which receives the testing project
Theory or Law
If a hypothesis receives high levels of confidence it is referred to as a law or a theory
Organization
One of the most important characteristics of the body structure
Cells
The smallest “living” units of structure and function in our body
Tissues
An organization of many cells that act together to preform a common function
Organs
Larger and more complex group of tissues that are arranged in a way that allow them to work as a unit to perform a special function
Systems
Most complex unit that makes up the body; a type of organization that works together to perform complex functions within the body
(i.e. cardiovascular system, digestive system)
Anatomical Position
A reference position with the body in a standing position, with the arms at its sides with the palms of the hand facing forward
Supine
Body is laying face upward
Prone
Body is lying face downward
Directional Terms
Used to describe relative positions of body parts
i.e. Superior, inferior, anterior, posterior, êtc
Superior
Towards the head
Inferior
Towards the feet
Anterior
Front or in front of
Posterior
Back or in back of
Medial
Towards the midline
Lateral
Towards the sides, or away from the midline
