What term encompasses the study of bodily structures?

The study of bodily structures is referred to as anatomy. Anatomy focuses on the physical organization of the body, examining the various parts, their locations, relationships, and functions within the larger system. This includes both macroscopic anatomy, which is the study of structures visible to the naked eye, and microscopic anatomy, which involves investigating structures that require magnification.

In contrast, physiology relates to how those structures function, indicating that it is concerned with the processes and mechanisms that take place within the living organism. Histology is a branch of anatomy that specifically looks at the microscopic structure of tissues. Pathology is the study of disease, looking at the changes in anatomy and physiology that result from illnesses. Understanding anatomy is fundamental in fields like medicine and emergency care, as it provides critical knowledge about injury assessment and treatment.