SEHS Test B.1.1 Anatomical position, planes and movement Flashcards
(12 cards)
Explain force, speed and displacement
Force is defined as a push or pull that can change an object’s motion or shape and is measured in newtons (N). It can cause an object to accelerate by changing its speed or direction. Speed refers to how fast an object is moving and is calculated by dividing distance by time; it is a scalar quantity, meaning it has no direction. In contrast, displacement measures the shortest straight-line distance from an object’s starting point to its final position and includes direction, making it a vector quantity. While speed indicates how quickly an object moves, displacement shows both how far and in which direction the object has moved. Understanding these concepts is fundamental in analyzing motion in physics and sports performance.
Explain the difference between superior and inferior
Superior and inferior are anatomical terms used to describe the relative positions of structures in the body. Superior refers to a position above or closer to the head, such as the chest being superior to the abdomen. Conversely, inferior means a position below or closer to the feet, for example, the stomach is inferior to the heart. These terms provide a clear and precise way to describe the location of body parts in relation to one another. Using superior and inferior helps avoid confusion when discussing anatomy. They are essential for effective communication in health and science contexts.
Explain the difference between posterior and anterior
Anterior and posterior are anatomical terms used to describe the front and back of the body, respectively. Anterior refers to the front or belly side, such as the chest being anterior to the spine. Posterior means towards the back or spine side, for example, the shoulder blades are posterior to the chest. These terms provide a precise way to describe the position of body parts in relation to one another. Using anterior and posterior helps improve clarity when discussing anatomy. They are fundamental for understanding body orientation in health and science.
Explain the difference between medial (inward) and lateral (outward)
Medial and lateral are terms used to describe the position of body parts relative to the midline of the body. Medial means closer to the midline or center, such as the nose being medial to the eyes. Lateral means farther from the midline, towards the outer sides of the body, like the ears being lateral to the nose. These terms help clearly indicate whether a body part is near the center or towards the edges. Understanding medial and lateral positions is essential for accurately describing anatomy and movement. They provide a precise way to communicate spatial relationships in the body.
Explain the difference between proximal and distal
Proximal and distal are anatomical terms used to describe locations on the limbs relative to their point of attachment to the body. Proximal refers to a position closer to where the limb connects to the trunk, such as the elbow being proximal to the wrist. Distal means farther away from the point of attachment, for example, the fingers are distal to the elbow. These terms allow for precise descriptions of limb positions, which is important in anatomy and movement. They are particularly useful when explaining injuries or muscle actions. Using proximal and distal helps improve clarity in communication about the body.
Explain intermediate
Intermediate is an anatomical term used to describe a position between two other structures in the body. It means “in the middle” or “between” two points. For example, the clavicle (collarbone) is intermediate between the sternum (breastbone) and the shoulder. This term provides a more precise way to describe the location of body parts that are not exactly central but lie between two structures. Understanding the concept of intermediate helps improve clarity when explaining body positions. It is often used in anatomy to accurately describe relationships between different parts.
Explain appendicular, skull and vertebral column
The appendicular skeleton consists of the bones of the limbs and the girdles, the shoulder and pelvic girdles that connect them to the axial skeleton. Its main function is to facilitate movement and interaction with the environment. The skull, part of the axial skeleton, protects the brain and provides support for the face. The vertebral column, also axial, is made up of vertebrae that protect the spinal cord and support the body’s weight. The axial and appendicular skeletons provide structure, protection, and enable mobility. While the appendicular skeleton allows movement, the skull and vertebral column safeguard vital organs.
Discuss the differences between flexion and extension
Flexion and extension are key types of joint movements that involve changing the angle between two body parts. Flexion is when the angle at a joint decreases, such as bending the elbow or knee, bringing the bones closer together. In contrast, extension increases the angle at a joint, like when you straighten your arm or leg, moving the bones further apart. These movements are essential for performing everyday actions and are especially important in exercise and sport. By understanding how flexion and extension work, we can accurately describe joint movements and how the body functions during physical activity.
Discuss the the planes functions
The body moves within three main anatomical planes: the sagittal, frontal, and transverse planes. The sagittal plane splits the body into left and right halves and involves forward and backward movements, such as walking, running, or squatting. The frontal plane divides the body into front and back halves and includes side-to-side movements like lateral lunges or jumping jacks. The transverse plane separates the body into top and bottom halves and allows for rotational movements, such as twisting the torso or turning the head. Understanding these planes is crucial in analysing human movement, improving athletic performance, and reducing the risk of injury during both exercise and everyday activities.
What are the three functions of the skeletal system
The skeletal system plays a vital role in the human body by performing three main functions: support, protection, and movement. It provides a strong internal framework that maintains the body’s shape and posture. Bones also protect vital organs—for example, the skull surrounds the brain, and the ribcage shields the heart and lungs. In terms of movement, the skeleton works alongside the muscular system, acting as a system of levers that allows the body to move efficiently. Additionally, bones are responsible for storing essential minerals like calcium and producing blood cells within the bone marrow. These functions are crucial for maintaining health, mobility, and overall physical performance.
Explain the differences between internal and external
The terms internal and external are used to describe the location of structures in relation to the inside or outside of the body. Internal refers to something located within the body or an organ. For example, the heart is an internal organ found inside the chest cavity. External, on the other hand, refers to structures on or near the surface of the body, such as the skin, which covers and protects the internal systems. Internal parts like muscles and bones are supported and shielded by external layers. Using these terms allows for accurate communication when identifying the position of body structures in anatomy and healthcare.
Discuss circumduction
Circumduction is a circular movement of a limb that combines flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction, resulting in a cone-shaped motion. This movement is most commonly seen in ball-and-socket joints, such as the shoulder and hip, which allow a wide range of motion. An example of circumduction is moving the arm in a full circle, as seen in actions like swimming or throwing. It is a smooth, controlled movement that requires coordination between multiple muscles and joints. Understanding circumduction is important for analysing complex joint movements in both sport and everyday activities, as it highlights how different types of motion work together to create fluid movement.
