Chapter 20, Problem 1CP

Define each of the following external features of the heart: auricle, coronary sulcus, anterior interventricular sulcus, and posterior interventricular sulcus.

Summary Introduction

To review:

The given terms of the heart: posterior interventricular sulcus, auricle, anterior interventricular sulcus, and coronary sulcus.

Introduction:

The heart is the prime organ of the circulatory system of the body. It is a four-chambered organ that pumps blood throughout the body. It lies between the two lungs and is slightly oriented towards the left side of the body. It is protected by a three-layered pericardium layer. The upper chamber of the heart, which forms the base of the heart is called auricle while the lower chambers forming the apex as ventricles.

Explanation of Solution

Auricle: It is a pouch-like structure, which is located on the anterior portion of the atria. It is slightly wrinkled and functions to increase the capacity of the atria in holding a large volume of blood.

Coronary sulcus: The heart is marked by groves externally (sulci), which contains the blood vessels and fat deposition. The coronary sulcus is present between the upper atria and the lower ventricles.

Anterior interventricular sulcus: This sulcus is present on the anterior potion of the heart between the left and right ventricles.

Posterior interventricular sulcus: This sulcus is present on the posterior surface of the heart between the left and the right ventricles. This sulcus is in continuation with the anterior interventricular sulcus.

Conclusion

Thus, the auricle is an extension of the atria, which increases the capacity of the heart in terms of holding blood. The sulci are the grooves present on the heart's surface, which consists of fat and blood vessels and is named as per their location on the heart.