Heart
The heart is a muscular organ located in the chest, slightly to the left of the midline. It is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body, supplying oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and removing carbon dioxide and waste products.
Anatomy of the Heart
The heart is divided into four chambers: the two upper chambers are called the atria, and the two lower chambers are called the ventricles. The right side of the heart receives deoxygenated blood from the body and pumps it to the lungs for oxygenation, while the left side of the heart receives oxygenated blood from the lungs and pumps it to the rest of the body.
Function of the Heart
The heart functions as a double pump, with the right side pumping blood to the lungs (pulmonary circulation) and the left side pumping blood to the rest of the body (systemic circulation). The coordinated contraction and relaxation of the heart muscle allow for the continuous flow of blood, maintaining the body's vital functions.
Study Guide
- Describe the structure of the heart, including its chambers and the flow of blood through them.
- Explain the function of the heart as a double pump in the circulatory system.
- Identify the major blood vessels connected to the heart and their roles in the circulation of blood.
- Discuss the electrical conduction system of the heart and its role in regulating the heartbeat.
- Examine common heart conditions and diseases, such as coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and heart failure.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the heart is crucial for comprehending the circulatory system and its role in maintaining overall health and well-being.
.
