Final answer:
Gross anatomy, or macroscopic anatomy, involves the study of large body structures visible without magnification, while microscopic anatomy includes the study of smaller structures like cells and tissues which require magnification to be observed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gross anatomy, also known as macroscopic anatomy, is the study of the larger structures of the body that are visible without the help of magnification. This area of anatomy is contrasted with microscopic anatomy, which involves the study of body structures that require a microscope or other magnifying devices to be seen. Gross anatomy covers the examination of large body structures such as the brain, heart, and bones, allowing us to see and understand the physical attributes and relationships between different parts of the body without the need for detailed magnification.
On the other hand, microscopic anatomy includes cytology, the study of cells, and histology, the study of tissues, which delves into the intricate details of the body at a much smaller scale. Observations of gross anatomy have traditionally been made through dissection and direct examination, and for living structures, non-invasive imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans are used.