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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the primary pacemaker of the heart?
A
Atrioventricular (AV) node
B
Bundle of His
C
Sinoatrial (SA) node
D
Purkinje fibers
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of a pacemaker in the heart: The pacemaker is responsible for initiating the electrical impulses that set the rhythm for the heart's contractions.
Identify the location and function of the Sinoatrial (SA) node: The SA node is located in the right atrium of the heart and is known as the primary pacemaker because it generates electrical impulses at the highest frequency.
Compare the SA node with other components: The Atrioventricular (AV) node, Bundle of His, and Purkinje fibers are part of the heart's conduction system but do not initiate the heartbeat. They help propagate the impulse generated by the SA node.
Recognize the hierarchy of pacemakers: The SA node is the primary pacemaker, followed by the AV node, which can take over if the SA node fails, but at a slower rate.
Conclude that the Sinoatrial (SA) node is the primary pacemaker of the heart, responsible for setting the pace of the heartbeat under normal physiological conditions.