Valves - GCSE Biology Definition

Valves are small structures inside the body that help control the direction of blood flow. They act like tiny doors that only open one way, making sure blood moves in the correct direction through the heart and blood vessels. For example, in the heart, there are valves between the different chambers that prevent the backflow of blood. Valves are important for keeping the circulatory system working properly, ensuring that oxygen-rich blood reaches all parts of the body efficiently. Understanding how valves work is important for studying how the heart and blood vessels function in the body in GCSE Biology.