The heart has four valves that ensure blood flows in one direction through the heart and lungs. These valves are the tricuspid, pulmonary, mitral, and aortic valves. They open and close with each heartbeat, controlled by the pressure changes within the heart chambers, allowing blood to move forward and preventing backflow.
Here’s a breakdown of each valve:
- Tricuspid Valve:Located between the right atrium and right ventricle. It opens when the right atrium contracts, allowing blood to flow into the right ventricle, and closes to prevent backflow when the right ventricle contracts.
- Pulmonary Valve:Located between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. It opens when the right ventricle contracts, allowing blood to flow to the lungs, and closes to prevent backflow from the pulmonary artery.
- Mitral Valve:Located between the left atrium and left ventricle. It opens when the left atrium contracts, allowing blood to flow into the left ventricle, and closes to prevent backflow when the left ventricle contracts.
- Aortic Valve:Located between the left ventricle and the aorta. It opens when the left ventricle contracts, allowing blood to flow to the body, and closes to prevent backflow from the aorta.
