Beating of the heart, also referred to as heartbeat or cardiac pulsation, is a fundamental physiological process that occurs in the circulatory system of humans and other vertebrates. It is the rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the heart muscles that facilitates the pumping of blood throughout the body.
The beating of the heart is initiated by an electrical signal generated by the sinoatrial (SA) node, a specialized group of cells located in the right atrium of the heart. This electrical impulse triggers the contraction of the atria, causing blood to be pumped into the ventricles. The signal then passes through the atrioventricular (AV) node, causing a brief delay to allow the ventricles to fill with blood before contracting. After the delay, the signal is conducted to the bundle of His and its branches, which distribute it to the Purkinje fibers, stimulating the contraction of the ventricles, resulting in the ejection of blood into the arteries.
The rate and rhythm of the beating of the heart can be influenced by various factors, including exercise, emotions, hormones, and certain medical conditions. The normal resting heart rate for adults ranges between 60 to 100 beats per minute, although it can vary depending on individual factors. Deviations from the normal beating of the heart, such as irregular rhythms or abnormally fast or slow rates, can indicate underlying health issues and may require medical attention.
Overall, the beating of the heart is an essential process that ensures the continuous circulation of oxygenated blood to the body's organs and tissues, allowing them to function optimally.
