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CAIE IGCSE Biology 9.2.10 How the Heart Pumps

Practise sequencing atrial and ventricular contractions and explaining pressure-driven opening and closing of valves.

Syllabus
2026–2028
Course
Biology 0610

Exam points

  • sequence atrial contraction, ventricular contraction and relaxation while tracing blood through the chambers
  • link ventricular contraction to rising pressure, closed atrioventricular valves and open semilunar valves
  • explain that each valve opens when pressure behind it exceeds pressure ahead and closes to stop backflow

9.2.10—Heart function question 1

[Maximum number: 4]

Heart rate is influenced by electrical impulses from the brain.

Question (a)

(a)

The electrical activity of the heart can be recorded on an ECG.

Fig. 3.1 shows an ECG of one heartbeat.

Fig. 3.1

Fig. 3.1

[ 4 ]

Question (i)

(i)

Table 3.1 shows how the electrical activity, during one heartbeat, corresponds to the opening and closing of the valves in the heart.

Complete Table 3.1 using the words 'open' and 'closed'.

Table 3.1

Table 3.1

[ 3 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

State the function of heart valves.

[ 1 ]
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