Science Behind - What is the heart?

With Valentine’s Day approaching many people are thinking about their heart from a romantic point of view, but what about from a biological perspective? This month’s science behind discusses the various parts and functions of the heart, as well as providing some tips on how to best take care of your heart. Have fun exploring the heart with these engaging freebies, videos, and kits!

Build a Model Heart
Student Laboratory Kit
In the Build a Model Heart Laboratory Kit for
anatomy and physiology, students build a functioning,
blood-pumping heart model.

Studying Heart Function Using
Electrocardiograms—Super Value Kit
In the Studying Heart Function Using Electrocardiograms Kit for anatomy and physiology, take on the role of a cardiologist and review four case studies to determine the heart rate and analyze other characteristic patterns.

Studying Heart Rate Using Daphnia—
Student Laboratory Kit
In the Studying Heart Rate Using Daphnia Animal Behavior Laboratory Kit for biology and life science, Daphnia are exposed to both a stimulant and depressant as well as varying environmental temperatures.

What is 120/80?
The heart is a pump that keeps blood flowing through the arteries and veins. The pressure of the blood is not steady—pressure surges with each heartbeat. When the heart beats, the blood pressure in the vessels is the highest.

Model Carbonate Blood Buffer
The pH level in blood must be maintained within extremely narrow limits. What is the composition of the major buffer in blood?

The Forensic Examiner
Mr. Smith was found in his bed deceased. He had no known pre-existing conditions. Perform four tests using his blood and urine to determine the possible cause of death.