The Human Body in Health and Disease

Front

What is anatomy?

Back

The study of the structures of the body.

Front

What is physiology?

Back

The study of the functions of the structures of the body.

Front

What are anatomic reference systems used for?

Back

To describe the locations of body structures.

Front

What is the anatomical position?

Back

Standing erect, palms facing forward, feet pointing forward.

Front

What is the midsagittal or midline plane?

Back

A vertical plane that divides the body into equal left and right halves.

Front

What is the sagittal plane?

Back

A vertical plane that divides the body into unequal left and right halves.

Front

What is the frontal or coronal plane?

Back

A vertical plane that divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) portions.

Front

What is the transverse plane?

Back

A horizontal plane that divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) portions.

Front

What does ventral mean?

Back

Front or belly side of an organ or body; opposite of dorsal.

Front

What does dorsal mean?

Back

Back side of an organ or body; opposite of ventral.