Introduction

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This photo shows a human heart.

Chapter Objectives

After studying this chapter, you will be able to:

Identify and describe the interior and exterior parts of the human heart
Describe the path of blood through the cardiac circuits
Describe the size, shape, and location of the heart
Compare cardiac muscle to skeletal and smooth muscle
Explain the cardiac conduction system
Describe the process and purpose of an electrocardiogram
Explain the cardiac cycle
Calculate cardiac output
Describe the effects of exercise on cardiac output and heart rate
Name the centers of the brain that control heart rate and describe their function
Identify other factors affecting heart rate
Describe fetal heart development

In this chapter, you will explore the remarkable pump that propels the blood into the vessels. There is no single better word to describe the function of the heart other than “pump,” since its contraction develops the pressure that ejects blood into the major vessels: the aorta and pulmonary trunk. From these vessels, the blood is distributed to the remainder of the body. Although the connotation of the term “pump” suggests a mechanical device made of steel and plastic, the anatomical structure is a living, sophisticated muscle. As you read this chapter, try to keep these twin concepts in mind: pump and muscle.

Although the term “heart” is an English word, cardiac (heart-related) terminology can be traced back to the Latin term, “kardia.” Cardiology is the study of the heart, and cardiologists are the physicians who deal primarily with the heart.

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