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Overview of Human Functions and Needs

Sep 3, 2024

Lecture 3: Human Functions and Needs

Human Life Functions

  1. Metabolism

    • Encompasses all chemical reactions (abbreviated RXN) in the cell.
    • First Law of Thermodynamics: Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed.
    • Types of Metabolic Reactions:
      • Anabolism: Building up, requires energy (ATP). Example: A + B -> AB.
      • Catabolism: Breaking down, releases energy (ATP). Example: AB -> A + B.
    • ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate): The energy molecule for cells.

  2. Responsiveness

    • Ability of cells to adjust to internal and external environmental changes.

  3. Movement

    • Occurs at multiple levels:
      • Cellular level
      • Fluid movement (e.g., cardiovascular and lymphatic systems)
      • Organ movement (e.g., heart, stomach, intestines)
      • Organismal level (e.g., physical actions like writing)

  4. Development

    • Growth and Reproduction:
      • Encompasses all life stages and changes, from infancy to adulthood.
      • Differentiation: Specialization of cells and tissues.
      • Growth: Increase in body size.
      • Reproduction: Creation of new life from parental generation.

Human Life Requirements

  1. Oxygen

    • Critical for life; 5 minutes without can cause brain damage, 10 minutes results in death.

  2. Nutrients

    • Includes water (70% of adult body mass), macronutrients, and micronutrients.
    • Macronutrients:
      • Carbohydrates and lipids for energy.
      • Proteins for body building.
    • Micronutrients: Vitamins and minerals, needed in smaller quantities.

  3. Temperature

    • Normal body temperature is around 37°C (98.6°F).
    • Important for optimal chemical reactions and enzyme activities.
    • Variability exists among individuals.

  4. Atmospheric Pressure

    • Maintains dissolved blood gases and aids pulmonary ventilation (breathing).
    • Related to the pressure difference between atmosphere and lungs.
    • Connected to body fluids and illustrated by decompression sickness.

Additional Insights

  • Temperature manipulations, like controlled hypothermia, have medical applications (e.g., open heart surgery).
  • Upcoming topic: Homeostasis.

Conclusion: Understanding the functions and needs of human life is crucial for comprehending human anatomy and physiology. Stay tuned for more insights on homeostasis.

Full transcript