Heart

A muscular organ responsible for pumping blood throughout the body and maintaining circulation.

The heart is a hollow, muscular organ located in the thoracic cavity between the lungs. It consists of four chambers: the right atrium, right ventricle, left atrium, and left ventricle. The heart receives deoxygenated blood from the body, pumps it to the lungs for oxygenation, and then circulates oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body.

Terminologia Anatomica

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System

Cardiovascular system

Function

The primary function of the heart is to maintain effective blood circulation. It acts as a powerful pump that contracts rhythmically to propel blood through a network of arteries and veins. The right side of the heart receives deoxygenated blood, which it pumps to the lungs for carbon dioxide removal and oxygen replenishment. In contrast, the left side receives the oxygen-rich blood and distributes it to various tissues and organs to fuel metabolic processes. This continuous cycle ensures that oxygen and essential nutrients reach every cell, while simultaneously removing carbon dioxide and other wastes. The heart also plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and maintaining homeostasis within the body, adapting its pumping rate based on the body’s immediate needs, such as during exercise or rest.

Location

The heart is centrally located in the thoracic cavity (chest), specifically within the mediastinum, which is the space between the lungs. It lies slightly to the left of the midline, encased in a protective membrane called the pericardium. The apex of the heart points toward the left hip and rests on the diaphragm, while the base is situated beneath the second rib. The heart's position is supported by its connection to major blood vessels such as the aorta, superior and inferior venae cavae, pulmonary arteries, and veins, allowing it to efficiently transport blood to and from the lungs and the body.

Did You Know?

The human heart can beat over 100,000 times a day, pumping approximately 7,570 liters of blood.
Every beat of the heart is controlled by an electrical system that ensures the heart functions as a cohesive unit.
The heart is about the size of a fist and weighs between 250 to 350 grams in adults.
Despite being a muscular organ, the heart is unique in its ability to continue beating even when separated from the body, as long as it has an adequate supply of oxygen.