organ
Definition
In biology, an organ is a group of tissues that work together to perform a specific function. For example, the heart is an organ that pumps blood throughout the body. The lungs are organs that allow us to breathe. The kidneys are organs that remove waste products from the blood.
Organs are made up of different types of tissues, including epithelial tissue, connective tissue, muscle tissue, and nervous tissue. Epithelial tissue covers the surface of the body and lines the organs. Connective tissue holds the organs in place and provides support. Muscle tissue allows the organs to move. Nervous tissue allows the organs to communicate with each other and with the brain.
The organs in the body work together to keep us alive. The heart pumps blood to the lungs, where it picks up oxygen. The oxygenated blood is then pumped to the rest of the body, where it provides energy for the cells. The lungs also remove carbon dioxide from the blood. The kidneys remove waste products from the blood. The liver breaks down food and removes toxins from the body.
The organs in the body are constantly working to keep us alive. They are essential for our survival.
How can the word be used?
There are many different types of organs, including pipe organs, electronic organs, and accordions.
Different forms of the word
Noun: A musical instrument that produces sound by forcing air through pipes.
Noun: A bodily part that performs a specific function.
Noun: A large, complex organisation.
Etymology
The word "organ" has two main etymologies.
The first etymology is from the Greek word "organon", which means "tool" or "instrument". This is the origin of the word "organism", which refers to a living thing that is made up of different parts that work together.
The second etymology is from the Latin word "organum", which means "pipe" or "tube". This is the origin of the word "organ" as it refers to a musical instrument.
The word "organ" was first used in English in the 14th century. It originally referred to a musical instrument, but it later came to be used to refer to any part of the body that has a specific function.
Question
What is an organ?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the importance of the liver as a vital organ in the human body. Discuss its key functions and how its structure is related to its functions.
Answer:
The liver holds significant importance as a vital organ in the human body due to its multifunctional roles. One of its crucial functions is detoxification, where it processes and removes toxins from the bloodstream, helping to maintain a healthy internal environment. The liver also plays a central role in metabolism, regulating the storage and release of glucose, as well as synthesising important molecules like proteins and cholesterol.
The liver's structure is intricately related to its functions. Its unique architecture, including lobules with numerous hepatocytes, maximises its surface area for efficient chemical reactions. The presence of a rich network of blood vessels, including the hepatic portal vein and hepatic artery, ensures a constant supply of nutrients and oxygen for the liver's metabolic activities. Moreover, the liver's arrangement allows for the proper distribution of processed substances to the rest of the body.
For instance, the liver's location adjacent to the digestive tract allows it to receive nutrients absorbed after digestion. It then processes these nutrients and either stores or releases them based on the body's energy needs. This structural design, with specialised cells and an intricate vascular network, enables the liver to effectively execute its diverse functions, making it an essential organ for maintaining overall bodily homeostasis.