Functions of The Heart

This set of flashcards covers the key vocabulary related to the functions and anatomy of the heart as described in the lecture notes.

Superior Vena Cava

A large vein that returns deoxygenated blood from the upper half of the body to the right atrium.

Pulmonary Vein

Carries oxygenated blood from the lungs back to the left atrium of the heart.

Right Atrium

Collects blood and passes it on to the lungs for oxygenation.

Pulmonary Valve

Controls the one-way flow of deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery.

Tricuspid Valve

Acts as a one-way gate between the right atrium and right ventricle, allowing deoxygenated blood to flow.

Right Ventricle

Pumps deoxygenated blood from the right atrium to the lungs to be oxygenated.

Inferior Vena Cava

Transports deoxygenated blood from the lower body to the heart's right atrium.

Aorta

Transports oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body through its extensive network of branches.

Pulmonary Artery

Carries oxygen-poor blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation and waste removal.

Left Atrium

Receives blood from pulmonary veins, stores blood during ventricular contraction, and actively contracts to boost filling of the left ventricle.

Bicuspid Valve

Allows oxygen-rich blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, closing to prevent backflow.

Aortic Valve

Acts as a one-way gate, opening to let oxygen-rich blood flow from the left ventricle into the aorta.