Physiology Flashcards
(17 cards)
What is physiology?
The science of life, a branch of biology that aims to understand the mechanisms of living things
What does pathophysiology study?
The study of abnormal physiological processes that complement the study of normal physiology
What is homeostasis?
The maintenance of a stable internal environment essential for health and survival
How are organ systems coordinated?
The functions of organ systems are coordinated with each other
What characterizes most physiological functions?
They are controlled by multiple regulatory systems, often working in opposition
What is essential for homeostasis?
Information flow between cells, tissues, and organs
What occurs during the controlled exchange of materials?
Materials are exchanged between compartments and across cellular membranes
What dictates physiological processes?
The laws of chemistry and physics
What does the term ‘homeo’ mean?
‘Same’
What does the term ‘stasis’ mean?
‘Staying’
What is dynamic constancy in physiology?
Most physiological variables are maintained within a narrow range rather than a single value
What can happen if thresholds of physiological variables are breached?
It can cause adverse processes leading to unwellness
Give examples of physiological variables that are maintained.
- Blood pressure
- Temperature
- Blood glucose
- pH
True or False: Homeostasis is not important for survival.
False
Fill in the blank: The study of normal physiology and _______ complement each other.
[pathophysiology]
What happens when an organ is removed for study?
It helps investigate the functioning of that organ
