The conduction system contains pacemaker cells, nodes, the ____, and the _____.

The conduction system of the heart is crucial for maintaining an effective and coordinated heartbeat. The correct answer highlights the specialized components that work together to ensure proper electrical conduction throughout the heart.

Pacemaker cells, found primarily in the sinoatrial (SA) node, initiate the heartbeat by generating electrical impulses. These impulses spread through the atrial walls, causing the atria to contract. The signals then travel to the atrioventricular (AV) node, from which they proceed to the Bundle of His, also known as the atrioventricular bundle.

The Bundle of His plays a key role in transmitting the electrical impulses from the AV node to the ventricles. This bundle divides into right and left bundle branches, which extend into the ventricles. The Purkinje fibers are fine fibers that spread throughout the ventricular myocardium, ensuring the rapid contraction of the ventricles once the electrical signals reach them. This organized pathway allows the heart to function efficiently and maintain an appropriate rhythm.

The other options do not accurately reflect components of the conduction system. While coronary arteries and the aorta are vital for supplying blood, they do not play a direct role in conduction. Likewise, atrial and ventricular muscle are important for contraction, but they do not constitute part of