The Heart & Cardiac Cycle Flashcards (Chapter 48)

Systole

The contraction phase of the cardiac cycle.

Diastole

The relaxation phase of the cardiac cycle.

SA node

The sinoatrial node, or pacemaker of the heart, which generates electrical impulses.

AV valves

Valves that control movement of blood between the atria and ventricles; includes tricuspid (right) and bicuspid (left) valves.

Semilunar valves

Valves found between the ventricles and the arteries into which they send blood; includes pulmonary (right) and aortic (left) valves.

Tricuspid valve

The valve that controls blood flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle.

Bicuspid valve

The valve that controls blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

A test that tracks electrical events during the cardiac cycle and monitors the heart's activity.

Action potential

An electrical impulse that triggers cardiac muscle contraction.

Myogenic heart

A heart that generates its own electrical impulses and beats independently.

Cardiac cycle

One complete sequence of pumping and filling of the heart.