How many impulses does the SA node generate approximately each minute?

Study for the Heart Physiology Exam. Review key concepts with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Get ready to ace your test!

The sinoatrial (SA) node, often referred to as the heart's natural pacemaker, typically generates impulses at a rate of about 60 to 100 impulses per minute in a healthy adult at rest. This intrinsic firing rate is crucial for initiating the electrical impulses that prompt the heart's contractions, thereby regulating heart rhythm.

The most commonly accepted average rate is approximately 75 impulses per minute, which falls within the normal range for the SA node. This rate can vary depending on physiological conditions such as exercise, stress, or overall autonomic nervous system activity, which can influence the heart rate.

A rate of 75 impulses effectively captures the typical functioning of the SA node under moderate conditions, making it the most accurate choice among the options provided. Understanding the role of the SA node is fundamental in heart physiology, as it plays a vital role in maintaining the rhythmic contractions of the heart and coordinating the heartbeat.

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