PX1226: How the Human Body Works

School Cardiff School of Physics & Astronomy
Department Code PHYSX
Module Code PX1226
External Subject Code 100350
Number of Credits 10
Level L4
Language of Delivery English
Module Leader Professor Neil Pugh
Semester Spring Semester
Academic Year 2013/4

Outline Description of Module

To provide to students of physics an introduction to human anatomy and physiology.

To give an overview of the construction and function of cells, and the structure and
operation of the musculoskeletal, nervous, cardiovascular, digestive and reproductive systems.

To give a working knowledge of genetics and the basis of inheritance, infection and disease control.

On completion of the module a student should be able to

Describe the structure and function of cells and processes such as osmosis, diffusion and active transport.

Explain the concepts and mechanisms of inheritance.

Outline the structure and role of the musculoskeletal system.

Identify key features and mechanisms of nerve cells, the nervous system and sensory perception.

Describe the role of the cardiovascular system, the composition and transport of blood, and the functions of respiration.

Explain the functions of the digestive and renal systems.

Describe the human reproductive system, including the hormonal controls of ovarian and male reproductive function.

How the module will be delivered

Lectures 22 x 1 hr, Exercises.

Skills that will be practised and developed

Problem solving. Investigative skills. Mathematics. Analytical skills.

How the module will be assessed

Examination 80%. Coursework 20%. [Examination duration: 2 hours]

Assessment Breakdown

Type % Title Duration(hrs)
Exam - Spring Semester 80 How The Human Body Works 2
Written Assessment 20 How The Human Body Works N/A

Syllabus content

Cells: Cell structure and function, DNA, proteins, carbohydrates. Cell membrane, osmosis, diffusion, active transport. Genetics, mitosis, meiosis. Inheritance, monohybrid inheritance, co-dominance, sex determination, sex linkage.

Musculoskeletal System: Bone and skeletal system. Types of bone, joints. Muscles, types of muscle, mechanics of muscle contraction and joint movement.

Nervous and Control Systems: Nerve cell, neuromuscular transmission, central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, sensory functions, motor functions. Endocrine system.

Cardiovascular system: Blood and constituents, blood groups, heart structure and function, blood pressure, blood vessels, lymphatics and lymph, diseases of cardiovascular system. Structure of respiratory system, respiration, functions of respiration, transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide, oxygen dissociation curve, maintenance of blood pH.

Urinary system: Kidney structure and function, water balance regulation.

Digestive system: Structure, food and nutrition, energy balance, homeostasis.

Reproductive system: Anatomy of the male reproductive system, spermatogenesis, hormonal control of male reproductive functions. Anatomy of the female reproductive system, ovarian function, control of ovarian function.

Essential Reading and Resource List

Any general anatomy and physiology textbook.


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