Final answer:
The conduction system of the heart includes the sinoatrial node, atrioventricular node, atrioventricular bundle, and Purkinje fibers, which coordinate the heart's beating. Electrical impulses follow this path, leading to the heart's cyclical contraction and relaxation. Corresponding parts of this process can be observed in the P wave, QRS complex, and T wave of an ECG.
Step-by-step explanation:
The conduction system of the heart ensures that it beats in a coordinated manner. The system includes several specialized structures which transmit electrical impulses throughout the heart. The path of conduction begins at the sinoatrial (SA) node, often referred to as the heart's natural pacemaker. The generated electrical impulse then travels through the internodal pathways to the atrioventricular (AV) node. Here, there's a slight delay to allow the atria to finish contracting. Next, the impulse travels down the atrioventricular bundle, also known as the bundle of His, which splits into the right and left bundle branches. These branches conduct the impulse to the Purkinje fibers, which distribute it throughout the ventricles, leading to ventricular contraction. This orderly progression of electrical activity is essential for the effective pumping of blood throughout the pulmonary and systemic circuits.
Various aspects of the cardiac conduction system can be related to the features seen on an electrocardiogram (ECG). The P wave indicates atrial depolarization, the QRS complex corresponds to ventricular depolarization, and the T wave signifies ventricular repolarization. This cycle of depolarization and repolarization allows the heart to continue its synchronized pumping action efficiently.