Which chambers of the heart are responsible for receiving blood?

The atria are the chambers of the heart responsible for receiving blood. Specifically, the right atrium receives deoxygenated blood from the body through the superior and inferior vena cavae, while the left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the lungs via the pulmonary veins. This function is crucial as it allows for the proper circulation of blood throughout the body.

In contrast, the ventricles are responsible for pumping blood out of the heart; the right ventricle sends blood to the lungs for oxygenation, and the left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Valves ensure unidirectional blood flow through the heart and prevent backflow, while arteries serve as vessels that carry blood away from the heart. Thus, the atria play a foundational role in the initial phase of circulation by collecting blood before it moves into the ventricles for distribution.