Anatomy

Study of the structure and organization of living organisms.

Basic Concepts

Levels of Organization in the Body

How the Body is Built: From Atoms to Organisms

The human body (and any living organism) is made up of different levels of organization, each building upon the previous one. Understanding these layers helps us see how complex creatures function, starting from the tiniest parts!

The Levels

  1. Chemical Level: Atoms and molecules, like water and proteins, form all living things.
  2. Cellular Level: Cells are the basic building blocks of life. Each cell has a specific job!
  3. Tissue Level: Groups of similar cells working together, like muscle or nervous tissue.
  4. Organ Level: Organs are made from different tissues working together, like your heart or stomach.
  5. Organ System Level: Organ systems, such as the digestive or respiratory system, are made of organs working together.
  6. Organism Level: All systems together create a living being—you!

Why Does This Matter?

This organization helps us understand where diseases start, how injuries affect the body, and why every part is important.

Fun Fact

Your body has over 37 trillion cells!

Examples

  • A heart is an organ made of muscle tissue, blood vessels, and nerve tissue.

  • The digestive system includes the stomach, intestines, and other organs.

In a Nutshell

The body is organized in layers, from atoms to whole organisms.

Key Terms

Cell
The basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms.
Tissue
A group of similar cells that perform a specific function.
Organ
A structure composed of two or more tissue types working together.