OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

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In heart treatments, what is the advantage of muscle tissue that contracts and relaxes like a heart?

  1. It decreases the heart rate

  2. It enhances blood flow

  3. It reduces the overall heart size

  4. It increases the risk of contraction

The correct answer is: It enhances blood flow

The advantage of muscle tissue that contracts and relaxes like the heart is that it enhances blood flow. This is due to the rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the heart muscle, known as myocardium, which is essential for pumping blood throughout the circulatory system. Each contraction propels blood into the arteries, while relaxation allows the heart chambers to fill with blood, ensuring a continuous and efficient flow. This muscle functionality is vital for maintaining adequate blood pressure and delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues. In a healthy heart, the coordinated contractions create a powerful and effective pump, maximizing blood circulation, which is crucial for overall health. This mechanism is particularly important during physical activity when the demand for oxygen increases, and enhanced blood flow helps meet that demand.