Human anatomy is the scientific study of the body’s structures. In the past, anatomy has primarily been studied via observing injuries, and later by the dissection of anatomical structures of cadavers, but in the past century, computer-assisted imaging techniques have allowed clinicians to look inside the living body. Human physiology is the scientific study of the chemistry and physics of the structures of the body. Physiology explains how the structures of the body work together to maintain life. It is difficult to study structure (anatomy) without knowledge of function (physiology). The two disciplines are typically studied together because form and function are closely related in all living things.
anatomy
science that studies the form and composition of the body’s structures
gross anatomy
study of the larger structures of the body, typically with the unaided eye; also referred to macroscopic anatomy
homeostasis
steady state of body systems that living organisms maintain
microscopic anatomy
study of very small structures of the body using magnification
physiology
science that studies the chemistry, biochemistry, and physics of the body’s functions
regional anatomy
study of the structures that contribute to specific body regions
systemic anatomy
study of the structures that contribute to specific body systems
1. Which of the following specialties might focus on studying all of the structures of the ankle and foot?
A) microscopic anatomy
B) muscle anatomy
C) regional anatomy
D) systemic anatomy
C
2. A scientist wants to study how the body uses foods and fluids during a marathon run. This scientist is most likely a(n) ________.
A) exercise physiologist
B) microscopic anatomist
C) regional physiologist
D) systemic anatomist
A
1. Name at least three reasons to study anatomy and physiology.
An understanding of anatomy and physiology is essential for any career in the health professions. It can also help you make choices that promote your health, respond appropriately to signs of illness, make sense of health-related news, and help you in your roles as a parent, spouse, partner, friend, colleague, and caregiver.
2. For whom would an appreciation of the structural characteristics of the human heart come more easily: an alien who lands on Earth, abducts a human, and dissects his heart, or an anatomy and physiology student performing a dissection of the heart on her very first day of class? Why?
A student would more readily appreciate the structures revealed in the dissection. Even though the student has not yet studied the workings of the heart and blood vessels in her class, she has experienced her heart beating every moment of her life, has probably felt her pulse, and likely has at least a basic understanding of the role of the heart in pumping blood throughout her body. This understanding of the heart’s function (physiology) would support her study of the heart’s form (anatomy).