What occurs when the pressure in the ventricles exceeds the pressure in the aorta?

Prepare for the EDAPT Cardiovascular System Test with interactive questions and comprehensive explanations. Enhance your understanding and ace your exam!

When the pressure in the ventricles exceeds the pressure in the aorta, the semilunar valves open. This occurs during the phase of the cardiac cycle known as ventricular systole, where the ventricles contract to pump blood out of the heart. The semilunar valves, which include the aortic valve, are located at the exit of the ventricles, and their primary function is to prevent the backflow of blood into the heart after it has been ejected into the aorta and pulmonary artery. When the ventricular pressure surpasses the pressure in the aorta, it forces these valves to open, allowing blood to flow into the aorta from the left ventricle. This critical event enables the circulation of oxygenated blood throughout the body, demonstrating the importance of pressure gradients in cardiovascular function.

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