Conduction

Conduction is the process by which heat or electricity is directly transmitted through a substance when there is a difference of temperature or of electrical potential between adjoining regions, without movement of the material.

Overview

In the context of physiology, conduction refers to the process by which nerve impulses are transmitted. In the cardiovascular system, conduction is the transmission of electrical impulses that cause the heart to beat.

Conduction in Physiology

In physiology, conduction is the propagation of an action potential along a neuron or muscle fiber. This process is crucial for the transmission of information within the nervous system and for the control of bodily functions.

Conduction in the Cardiovascular System

In the cardiovascular system, conduction refers to the process by which electrical impulses are transmitted through the heart muscle, causing it to contract and pump blood. This process is regulated by the sinoatrial node (SA node), the natural pacemaker of the heart.

Disorders of Conduction

Disorders of conduction can occur in both the nervous system and the cardiovascular system. In the nervous system, conditions such as multiple sclerosis can damage the myelin sheath that insulates nerve fibers and aids in conduction. In the cardiovascular system, conditions such as arrhythmia can disrupt the normal conduction of electrical impulses, leading to irregular heartbeats.

See Also

• Nervous system
• Cardiovascular system
• Action potential
• Sinoatrial node
• Multiple sclerosis
• Arrhythmia

Conduction Resources
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