Study Guide Unit 1 Anatomy and Physiology

WEEK 1: AN INTRODUCTION TO HUMAN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY

1. Define the terms anatomy and physiology, and explain their relationship using an example of a human structure with its corresponding function.

Anatomy is the study of structure and shape of the body and its parts. Physiology is the study of the body, its parts, and their functions. You cannot completely understand anatomy without also knowing physiology; for example, it would be hard to understand how the heart pumps blood without first knowing about the valves, atriums and ventricles which help it to do so.

2. List, in order from least to most complex, the levels of structural organization, discuss the relationship between the levels, and name an example at each level.

Atom – atoms combine to form molecules (ex: Carbon, Oxygen, and Hydrogen)

Molecules – molecules combine to form macromolecules (ex: CO2, H2O)

Macromolecules – combine to form organelles (ex: lipids, carbohydrates, proteins)

Organelles – organelles collectively compose into cells (ex: nucleus, cell membrane)

Cells – similar cells group into tissues (ex: brain cell, skin cell, muscle cell)

Tissue – multiple tissues make up an organ (ex: muscles, connective tissue)

Organ – two or more organs form an organ system (ex: brain, heart, stomach)

Organ system – the 11 organ systems make up the human body (ex: respiratory, digestive)

Organism – the most complex level. (ex: human)

3. List the 11 organ systems of the human organism, name the major organs within each, and give a general function for each system.

1. Integumentary – (skin) forms external covering, protects from injuries and synthesizes vitamin D.

2. Skeletal – (bones, cartilage and joints) protects organs, supports the body, muscles attachment, mineral storage and blood cell formation.

3. Muscular – (skeletal muscles) allows movement, produces heat and maintains posture along with the skeletal system.

4. Nervous – (nerves, brain, sensory receptor...