Final answer:
The location of the apical impulse in children depends on age, being located at the fourth intercostal space in children younger than 7 years and moving to the fifth intercostal space in children older than 7 years.
Step-by-step explanation:
The apical impulse (AI) is the point of maximal impulse on the chest wall where the cardiac apex beats against it.
The location of the apical impulse shifts with age due to the growth of the thoracic cavity. In children younger than 7 years of age, the AI is typically found just lateral to the left midclavicular line and the fourth intercostal space.
As children get older, the heart descends relative to the chest wall, so in children older than 7 years, the AI is found at the left midclavicular line and the fifth intercostal space.
The human heart, including the aortic valve, is located within the thoracic cavity, medially between the lungs.
The apex of the heart, where the apical impulse can be palpated, is oriented towards the left side of the chest. It's vital to have knowledge of these locations for appropriate clinical examination and diagnosis.