Describe how a heartbeat is initiated and coordinated?

The sinoatrial node (SAN) sends a wave of electrical activity across the atria causing atrial contraction. The non-conducting tissue stops the immediate contraction of the ventricles. The atrioventricular node (AVN) delays the impulse whilst the blood leaves the atria and fills the ventricles. After the ventricle fills, the AVN sends a wave of electrical activity down the Bundle of His which causes the ventricles to contract from the base up. 
 

Answered by Dharani Y. Biology tutor

38345 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I tackle questions that seem only vaguely related to the course I've covered?


Messenger RNA (mRNA) is used during translation to form polypeptides. Describe how mRNA is produced in the nucleus of a cell.


What is the role of the kidneys in osmoregulation?


Explain the stages of an ECG trace.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences