Anatomy and Physiology II Practice Test

Which structures are known as the 'discharging chambers' of the heart?

1. Atria

2. Ventricles

3. Septum

4. Valves

The correct answer is: Ventricles

The ventricles are referred to as the 'discharging chambers' of the heart because they are responsible for pumping blood out of the heart. There are two ventricles: the right ventricle and the left ventricle. The right ventricle sends deoxygenated blood to the lungs via the pulmonary artery for oxygenation, while the left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood to the rest of the body through the aorta. This action is vital for maintaining circulation and ensuring that oxygen and nutrients reach various tissues and organs throughout the body. The strength of the ventricle contractions is significant since the ventricles must generate enough pressure to overcome the pressure in the arteries and propel blood forward. In contrast, other structures like the atria, which are also part of the heart, serve primarily as receiving chambers, collecting blood from the body and lungs rather than discharging it. The septum is a wall that separates the left and right sides of the heart, and valves ensure unidirectional flow of blood but do not discharge blood themselves. Therefore, the ventricles accurately represent the chambers responsible for discharging blood during the cardiac cycle.