Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

18. The Heart

Electrical Conduction System of the Heart

Anatomy & Physiology

18. The Heart

Electrical Conduction System of the Heart

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Multiple Choice

Why are gap junctions a vital part of the intercellular connection of cardiac muscles?

They prevent the backflow of blood within the heart chambers.

They store calcium ions necessary for muscle contraction.

They provide structural support to the cardiac muscle fibers.

They allow for the rapid transmission of electrical impulses between cardiac cells.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of gap junctions: Gap junctions are specialized intercellular connections that facilitate direct communication between cells by allowing the passage of ions and small molecules.

Identify the function of cardiac muscle cells: Cardiac muscle cells need to contract in a coordinated manner to effectively pump blood throughout the body.

Recognize the importance of electrical impulses: For cardiac muscle cells to contract synchronously, electrical impulses must be rapidly transmitted from one cell to the next.

Connect gap junctions to electrical impulse transmission: Gap junctions allow ions to flow freely between cardiac cells, enabling the quick spread of electrical impulses necessary for synchronized contraction.

Conclude why gap junctions are vital: By allowing rapid transmission of electrical impulses, gap junctions ensure that cardiac muscle cells contract in unison, which is essential for the heart's function as a pump.