EXPLAIN HOW THE RATE OF THE HEARTBEAT IS BASICALLY CONTROLLED?

Answer 1

The rate of the heartbeat is primarily controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which consists of the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches. The sympathetic nervous system increases the heart rate during stress or physical activity by releasing hormones like adrenaline, while the parasympathetic nervous system, through the vagus nerve, slows the heart rate during rest or relaxation. Additionally, intrinsic factors like the sinoatrial (SA) node, the heart's natural pacemaker, generate electrical impulses that initiate each heartbeat and set the basic rhythm. Hormones and other signals from the body also influence heart rate, allowing for adjustments based on physiological needs.