How does the electrical system of the heart work?

The electrical activity of the heart begins in the sinoatrial node which is a collection of pacemaker cells located in the right atrium. These cells spread electrical activity across the atrium causing both atrium to contract to pump blood from the atrium into the ventricles. The electrical signals now spread to the atrioventricular node located between the right atrium and right venticle. From here the signals run down the bundle of His in the heart's septum to the purkinje fibres at the base of the ventricles. This then causes both ventricles to contract so blood can be pumped out of the heart to the body and lungs.

EM
Answered by Emma M. Biology tutor

3155 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why is the tertiary structure of an enzyme essential to its function?


The genetic code is the sequence of bases in DNA, which is found in chromosomes and is made up of double stranded polynucleotides. Explain what is meant by the term “double-stranded polynucleotide” in relation to DNA.


what factors determine enzyme activity?


Formation of phosphodiester bond


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning