How do electrical impulses control contraction of the heart?

Electrical impulses from the SAN (sinoatrial node) spread across the atria walls to cause contraction. The impulses then pass to the ventricles via the AVN (atrioventricular node) after a short delay to allow time for the atria to fully contract. These impulses then pass down the purkyne fibres to the heart apex. They then spread up through the ventricle walls to cause contraction from the apex upwards. Blood is squeezed into the arteries as a result.

JA
Answered by Jack A. Biology tutor

2697 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is a genetic mutation?


Could you explain the difference between passive diffusion and facilitated transport?


What are the different roles of synapses in the nervous system?


What is a condensation reaction?


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