Define anatomy.
The study of the structure of the body and its parts
Anatomy is a branch of biology that deals with the structure of organisms.
Define physiology.
The study of the functions of the body’s parts
Physiology explains how the body works and the processes that occur within it.
Describe how structure and function are complementary to one another.
Structure determines function and vice versa
The relationship between structure and function is fundamental in biology.
List the levels of structural organization.
These levels represent the complexity of biological organization.
Define the eight functional characteristics of life processes of humans.
These characteristics are essential for maintaining life.
List the survival needs of the human body.
These needs are critical for sustaining life.
Define homeostasis.
The maintenance of a stable internal environment
Homeostasis is crucial for the proper functioning of the body.
Describe the three interdependent components of all homeostatic control mechanisms.
These components work together to maintain homeostasis.
Define negative feedback.
A mechanism that reverses a change in a controlled condition
Example: Regulation of body temperature.
Define positive feedback.
A mechanism that enhances a change in a controlled condition
Example: Blood clotting process.
Define anatomical position.
A standard position of the body used as a reference
In this position, the body is standing upright, facing forward, with arms at the sides and palms facing forward.
Identify the planes of the body.
These planes are used to describe locations and movements in the body.
Define anterior (ventral).
The front of the body
This term is used to describe the position of body parts.
Define posterior (dorsal).
The back of the body
This term is used to describe the position of body parts.
Define superior (cephalic or cranial).
Above or higher than another part
This term is used to describe the position of body parts.
Define inferior (caudal).
Below or lower than another part
This term is used to describe the position of body parts.
Define medial.
Toward the midline of the body
This term is used to describe the position of body parts.
Define lateral.
Away from the midline of the body
This term is used to describe the position of body parts.
Define intermediate.
Between medial and lateral structures
This term is used to describe the position of body parts.
Define proximal.
Closer to the origin of the body part
This term is used to describe the position of body parts.
Define distal.
Farther from the origin of the body part
This term is used to describe the position of body parts.
Define prone.
Lying face down
This term describes a position of the body.
Define supine.
Lying face up
This term describes a position of the body.
Define plantar.
Relating to the sole of the foot
This term is used to describe the position of body parts.