BIO202IN Chapter 18: The Heart Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms, abbreviations, and concepts from Chapter 18: The Heart in BIO202IN Human Anatomy and Physiology.

Mediastinum

Central thoracic cavity region where the heart sits.

Apex

Inferior pointed tip of the heart pointing towards the left side formed by the left ventricle

Pericardium

Is a double‑layered membrane surrounding the heart filled with fluid which protects the heart from trauma, and anchors the heart in place

Pericardial fluid

lubricating fluid reducing friction between layers

Pericardial cavity/sac

Space containing pericardial fluid.

Fibrous pericardium

dense connective tissue anchoring the heart to surrounding structures

Epicardium (visceral pericardium)

layer of serous pericardium that makes up the most superficial layer of the heart

Myocardium

is the spiral‑arranged cardiac muscle layer that produces heart contractions. It’s supported by a fibrous skeleton of collagen and elastic fibers that stabilizes the valves, anchors muscle fibers, and directs electrical signals through the heart.

Endocardium

a layer of simple squamous epithelium, that lines the chambers and valves of the heart.

Right atrium

Receives deoxygenated blood from body.

Cardiac Conduction System

Includes the sinoatrial (SA) node, atrioventricular (AV) node, bundle of HIS, right bundle, left bundle, and Purkinje fibers.

Atrioventricular Valves

Heart valves that include the tricuspid valve and the bicuspid (mitral) valve.

Semilunar Valves

Heart valves that include the pulmonary valve and the aortic valve.

Inotropic and Chronotropic Agents

Agents affecting cardiac function categorized in Chapter 18 as positive inotropic agent, negative inotropic agent, positive chronotropic agent, and negative chronotropic agent.

Frank-Starling Law of the Heart

A major physiological law specified as terminology to master in Chapter 18.