Biology 9700 · AS & A Level · The heart

The heart — practice question

In a healthy mammalian heart, the sinoatrial node (SAN) and atrioventricular node (AVN) work together to coordinate contraction of the four chambers.
(a)[2]

Once the atria have filled with blood, atrial systole (contraction) occurs. State the events that happen to initiate and bring about atrial systole.

(b)[2]

State and explain how the heart’s structure makes it possible for the atria to contract before the ventricles.

(c(i))[3]

For each of the points E, F, G and H on Fig. 2.1, identify the valve involved and say whether it is open or closed.

(c(ii))[2]

Explain how Fig. 2.1 gives evidence that the left atrium wall and the left ventricle wall are not the same thickness.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: sinoatrial node (SAN) initiates and sends out a wave of electrical excitation

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