Describe the structure and functioning of the human heart
Answers
The heart is a muscle whose working mechanism is made possible by the many parts that operate together. The organ is divided into several chambers that take in and distribute oxygen-poor or oxygen-rich blood. These chambers are accompanied by veins and arteries that facilitate the same function. With all of its parts working together towards the same goal, the heart successfully pumps blood with ease.Normally, a good-functioning adult heart could go on three cardiac cycles or 72 beats per minute. This rate changes for children whose heart rates are normally and relatively faster.Structure of the Heart
The heart can be found at the center of the chest, underneath the sternum in a thoracic compartment. It is made up of four chambers and several valves that regulate the normal flow of blood within the body.
Two chambers called atria are located in the upper portion of the heart and receive oxygen-free blood. The valves that separate these chambers are called atrioventricular valves which is composed of the tricuspid valve on the left and the mitral valve on the right.
On the other hand, ventricles are chambers found on the lower portion of the heart; they pump oxygen-enriched blood into all organs of the body, reaching even the smallest cells. Similar to the atria, the ventricular chambers are also separated by valves. Collectively-termed as semilunar valves, these are comprised of the pulmonary and aortic valve.
Function of the Heart
The heart is the main organ in the circulatory system, the structure primarily responsible for delivering the circulation of blood and transportation of nutrients in all parts of the body. This continuous task uplifts the role of the heart as a vital organ whose normal operation is constantly required.The heart’s blood-pumping cycle, called cardiac cycle, ensures that blood is distributed throughout the body. The oxygen distribution process begins when oxygen-free blood enters into the heart through the right atrium, goes into the right ventricle, enters the lungs for oxygen refill and release of carbon dioxide, and transfers into the left chambers, ready for redistribution. About 5.6 liters of blood circulate the body and three cardiac cycles are completed per minute.