The heart contains chambers, valves, vessels, a muscular wall, and a conduction system.
Heart's Internal Structure
The heart is a complex organ with various components working together to pump blood efficiently throughout the body. It is divided into multiple chambers and structures which are critical for its function.
Chambers of the Heart
The heart has four chambers:
-
Atria: The upper two chambers, called the atria, are the receiving chambers for blood returning to the heart.
- The right atrium receives deoxygenated blood from the body.
- The left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the lungs.
-
Ventricles: The lower two chambers, known as ventricles, are the pumping chambers that push blood out of the heart.
- The right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs.
- The left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood to the rest of the body.
Septa
The heart is divided into two sides by muscular walls called septa (singular: septum).
- These septa prevent the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, ensuring efficient delivery of oxygen throughout the body.
Summary Table
| Component | Description | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Atria | Upper chambers of the heart. The right atrium and left atrium. | Receive blood entering the heart. |
| Ventricles | Lower chambers of the heart. The right ventricle and left ventricle. | Pump blood out of the heart to the lungs and the rest of the body. |
| Septa | Muscular walls dividing the heart into two sides. | Prevent mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. |
The heart also contains valves, vessels, and a conduction system, but the provided reference primarily detailed the chambers and septa.
