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Physiology SS 1
First StudyStack Assignment (1-6) Physiology
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the primary role of negative feedback in the body? | To maintain homeostasis by reversing any change that deviates from the set point |
| What is the fundamental difference between anatomy and physiology? | Anatomy is the study of structure (what things are), and Physiology is the study of function (how things work). |
| How does oxygen enter a cell (a passive process)? | Through Simple Diffusion, moving directly across the phospholipid bilayer from an area of high concentration (outside) to low concentration (inside). |
| What is the main function of the sodium-potassium (Na+/K+) pump? | It maintains the resting membrane potential by actively transporting 3Na+ ions out and 2K+ into the cell. |
| What is the key function of the mitochondria? | To perform Cellular Respiration and generate the majority of the cell's ATP (adenosine triphosphate). |
| What is the physiological purpose of cilia on epithelial cells (e.g., in the respiratory tract)? | To create sweeping movements to propel substances (like mucus and trapped debris) across the cell surface. |
| Which type of muscle tissue is responsible for peristalsis (moving food through the digestive tract)? | Smooth Muscle, which contracts involuntarily to move substances through hollow internal organs. |
| What is the primary function of neuroglia (glial cells) in nervous tissue? | They support, insulate, and protect the neurons, maintaining the necessary environment for neural function. |
| What is the function of the strong, elastic Extracellular Matrix in connective tissue? | provides support, strength, and resilience to the tissue, often serving as a medium for transport and hydration. |
| What is the function of the tight junctions found between certain epithelial cells? | To form an impermeable barrier that prevents substances from passing between the cells (paracellular route). |
| What is the main physiological consequence of the skin being compromised by a third-degree burn? | Massive fluid loss (leading to dehydration) and increased risk of infection, as the skin's barrier function is destroyed. |
| How does the body use vasodilation in the skin to regulate core temperature? | Blood vessels near the skin surface widen, allowing more warm blood to flow closer to the surface to release heat. |
| What is the specific physiological role of melanin in the skin? | To protect the DNA of skin cells from damage caused by UV radiation by absorbing the light. |
| How are nutrients supplied to the epidermis (the outermost skin layer)? | Since the epidermis is avascular (lacks blood vessels), nutrients must be supplied by diffusion from the capillaries in the underlying dermis. |
| What are the key physiological functions of adipose tissue? | Energy storage, insulation (thermal regulation), and organ cushioning (protection). |
| What is the main product of sebaceous glands and its function? | Sebum (oil), which lubricates the skin and hair, prevents desiccation, and contains bactericidal agents. |
| A cell is actively making and secreting a large amount of a protein hormone. Which two organelles would be most prominent? | Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER) (for synthesis) and the Golgi Apparatus (for modification and packaging). |
| Why is the Sagittal Plane clinically important in imaging (MRI, CT scans)? | It divides the body into right and left portions, allowing clinicians to view structures from the side (lateral perspective). |
| What is the physiological process that moves water across the cell membrane to equalize solute concentration? | Osmosis, which is the passive diffusion of water through a selectively permeable membrane. |
| What function is served by the large amount of collagen and elastin found in the dermis? | To provide the skin with strength and elasticity, allowing it to stretch and recoil without tearing. |
| What is the physiological process of Endochondral Ossification? | The formation of bone by replacing a hyaline cartilage model. This is how most long bones are formed and how they grow in length at the epiphyseal plate. |
| Name the bone cell that is primarily responsible for breaking down bone matrix (resorption). | Osteoclasts: Large, multi-nucleated cells that secrete acids and enzymes to dissolve the bone matrix, releasing minerals (like calcium) into the blood. |
| What is the location and function of the epiphyseal plate (growth plate) in a juvenile long bone? | Located between the diaphysis and epiphysis. Its function is to allow longitudinal bone growth via continuous cartilage growth and subsequent ossification. |
| Besides support and protection, what are two vital homeostatic functions of the adult skeletal system? | Mineral Storage (primarily calcium and phosphate) and Hematopoiesis (blood cell formation in the red bone marrow). |
| What is the purpose of the tiny channels called canaliculi in compact bone? | To form a network of small passageways that connect osteocytes in their lacunae, allowing for nutrient/waste exchange and communication. |