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What is the primary role of the left ventricle in the heart?

  1. To receive oxygenated blood from the lungs

  2. To pump deoxygenated blood to the lungs

  3. To pump oxygenated blood to the body

  4. To control heart rate

The correct answer is: To pump oxygenated blood to the body

The primary role of the left ventricle is to pump oxygenated blood to the body. This chamber of the heart receives oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium, which comes from the lungs via the pulmonary veins. Upon filling with blood, the left ventricle contracts and forces this oxygenated blood into the aorta, the major artery that delivers it to systemic circulation, ensuring that all body tissues receive the oxygen and nutrients they need for proper functioning. The left ventricle is especially muscular and thick-walled compared to other chambers of the heart, as it must generate enough pressure to overcome the resistance of the extensive systemic circulation. This differs from the roles of the other chambers; for instance, the right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs for re-oxygenation, while the atria are primarily involved in receiving blood. Control of heart rate is mainly managed by the sinoatrial node and is not the primary function of any specific chamber of the heart.