What occurs during the systole phase of the cardiac cycle?

During the systole phase of the cardiac cycle, the primary occurrence is the contraction of the heart chambers. This phase is critical in the overall function of the heart, as it is during systole that the ventricles contract to pump blood out of the heart. The right ventricle sends deoxygenated blood to the lungs via the pulmonary artery, while the left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood into the systemic circulation through the aorta. This contraction is initiated by electrical impulses from the sinoatrial node, leading to the coordinated contraction of the heart muscle.

Systole is essential for maintaining blood pressure and ensuring that blood reaches various organs and tissues throughout the body. By understanding this phase, one can appreciate the dynamics of blood flow and the importance of heart function in overall cardiovascular health.