1. The anterior surface of the heart is the side facing forward, typically showing the right ventricle and part of the left ventricle and atria. The posterior surface is the side facing backward, primarily showing the left atrium and parts of the right atrium and ventricles. You can tell them apart by examining the external anatomy: the anterior surface has a more prominent bulge from the right ventricle, while the posterior surface is flatter and shows the atria more clearly.
2. There are four chambers in the mammalian heart. Blood flows through them in this order: right atrium → right ventricle → left atrium → left ventricle.
3. The pumping chambers of the heart are the ventricles — specifically, the right ventricle and the left ventricle.
4. The receiving chambers of the heart are the atria — specifically, the right atrium and the left atrium.
5. Blood entering the superior vena cava comes from the upper body (head, neck, arms, and upper chest). Blood entering the inferior vena cava comes from the lower body (abdomen, pelvis, and legs).
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of heart dissection lab worksheet.
