Biology 9700 · AS & A Level · The heart

The heart — practice question

(a)[4]

Describe the functions of the sinoatrial node (SAN) and the atrioventricular node (AVN) in starting and regulating the cardiac cycle.

(b)[2]

Explain why it is necessary for the Purkyne fibres to reach the base of the heart.

(c)[4]

The nervous system controls SAN activity. Noradrenaline is released by nerve cells in the SAN. Fig. 4.1 illustrates how noradrenaline causes calcium ions ($\text{Ca}^{2+}$) to move into a cell in the SAN. With reference to Fig. 4.1, outline the process of cell signalling.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: SAN serves as the pacemaker that initiates the heartbeat

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