What happens to blood flow when the left ventricle contracts?

When the left ventricle contracts, the primary function is to pump oxygenated blood into the aorta, which then distributes it throughout the body. During this phase, known as systole, the pressure within the ventricle rises sharply. This increase in pressure causes the mitral valve to close, preventing the backflow of blood into the left atrium. Simultaneously, the increased pressure forces the aortic valve to open, allowing blood to flow into the aorta.

This coordinated action of closing the mitral valve and opening the aortic valve is crucial for effective circulation; it ensures that the blood is directed forward into the systemic circulation rather than allowing it to flow backward. Therefore, the closing of the mitral valve and the opening of the aortic valve during ventricular contraction is a fundamental aspect of the heart's cardiac cycle, underscoring the efficiency of the heart as a pump.