How does the heart pump blood around the body?

The heart pumps blood around the body primarily through the contraction of the ventricles. When the ventricles contract, they generate the pressure needed to push blood into the arteries. This process involves the opening and closing of heart valves that ensure blood flows in the correct direction and prevents any backflow.

The ventricles play a crucial role in this function. The right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs where it receives oxygen, while the left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. This coordinated contraction and the systemic relaxation of the heart muscle leads to an efficient circulatory process.

Ultimately, this is a vital function of the heart, allowing for nutrient and oxygen distribution and waste removal throughout the body, which is essential for maintaining overall health.