CVS Practice Test 2025 – The All-In-One Guide to Exam Success!

Question: 1 / 400

Heart rate is determined by groups of cells within the heart which have the ability to act as what?

Electrical pacemakers

The correct response highlights the role of specialized cells in the heart known as pacemaker cells. These cells possess the unique ability to generate electrical impulses autonomously, initiating the contraction of the heart muscle. The primary pacemaker is located in the sinoatrial (SA) node, which is responsible for setting the rhythm of the heartbeat. This capability makes them essential for maintaining a consistent heart rate and ensuring efficient blood circulation throughout the body.

The other options do not capture the primary function of these cells accurately. Neural transmitters refer to chemicals that transmit signals between nerve cells, rather than the intrinsic pacemaking ability of heart cells. Structural cells are more related to providing support and shape to the heart rather than driving its rhythmic contractions. Contractile tissues refer to the muscle fibers that contract in response to electrical impulses but do not themselves produce those impulses. Therefore, defining these cells as electrical pacemakers effectively describes their critical functionality in heart rate regulation.

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Neural transmitters

Structural cells

Contractile tissues

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