Physical anthropology

Physical anthropology

The branch of anthropology that studies the development of the human race in the context of other primate species.

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Physical anthropology

isotope

Anthropology; Physical anthropology

Any of two or more forms of an element that differ in terms of atomic mass but have the same atomic number--for example, carbon-12, carbon-13, and carbon-14 are all isotopes of carbon.

race

Anthropology; Physical anthropology

Any of the different varieties of humanity assumed by some people to exist, based on the discredited typological model of human variation. Such "races" are commonly distinguished on the basis of ...

Any of several reddish-orange organic pigments. While carotene is present in human skin, it is also found in higher concentrations in butter, carrots, and some other vegetables. Carotene is involved ...

autoimmune disorder

Anthropology; Physical anthropology

Any of several disorders in which one's antibodies attack his/her own body tissues. Lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and even common allergies are caused by such autoimmune reactions.

protein

Anthropology; Physical anthropology

Any of a large number of organic molecules that are composed of one or more chains of amino acids. These chains are twisted and folded back on themselves in complex patterns. Proteins can serve a ...

muscular dystrophy (MD)

Anthropology; Physical anthropology

Any of a group of inherited progressive muscle disorders caused by a defect in one or more genes that control muscle function. MD is characterized by a gradual, irreversible wasting of skeletal ...