Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Chapter 1 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology

Anatomy Examines the morphology (or structures) of the body. Form and organization of organisms.

Physiology Examines the functions of the body. What do structures do? Why do structures do the things they do?

Anatomy and Physiology Anatomy and physiology are interconnected and depend on one another for life to exist. (Structure is related to function.)

Examining Organisms as Parts to Whole Atoms Building blocks of matter. Composed of subatomic particles. Form molecules which group together to form macromolecules.

Examining Organisms as Parts to Whole Cells Basic units of structure and function in organisms. Vary in characteristics such as size and shape. All cells contain organelles that carry out specific functions. Remember that organelles are made out of large molecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Most cells have a complete set of genetic instructions but only use a subset of the instructions, which allows the cell develop specialized functions.

Examining Organisms as Parts to Whole Tissues Masses or layers of cells that all have similar functions.

Examining Organisms as Parts to Whole Organs Groups of similarly functioning tissues.

Examining Organisms as Parts to Whole Organ Systems Groups of organs working together to perform specific functions.

Examining Organisms as Parts to Whole Groups of interacting organ systems.