What is the function of the Atrioventricular (AV) Node in the heart?

The Atrioventricular (AV) Node plays a crucial role in the heart's conduction system by regulating the electrical impulses that travel through the heart. Specifically, it serves as a critical relay point between the atria and the ventricles. When the sinoatrial (SA) node generates an electrical signal, it first causes the atria to contract and pump blood into the ventricles. The AV node then delays this electrical impulse slightly before allowing it to pass into the ventricles. This delay is vital because it ensures that the ventricles fill completely with blood from the atria before they contract and send blood to the lungs and the rest of the body.

This function of the AV node in controlling the timing of electrical impulses is essential for maintaining a coordinated and efficient heartbeat. It ensures that the atria and ventricles are synchronized in their contractions, which is necessary for effective blood circulation. The other choices do not accurately describe the function of the AV node; the AV node does not directly regulate electrical currents solely to the atria, it does not connect the atria to the lungs, and it has no role in maintaining blood flow through the pulmonary artery. The AV Node specifically is pivotal in ensuring that the electrical signals that control heart contractions reach