Explain how increased blood CO2 leads to an increased heart rate

The high CO2 rate is detected by chemoreceptors in the aorta. The chemoreceptors send impulses to the medulla in the brain. The medulla then sends impulses along sympathetic neurons to the sinoatrial node in the heart. The neurons release noradrenaline which binds to receptors on the sinoatrial node. This binding causes the sinoatrial node to send impulses at a faster rate, therefore increasing heart rate.

AV
Answered by Alice V. Biology tutor

10408 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Name the order of taxon classifications starting with domain and a key feature of each of the domains.


The Pacinian corpuscle senses changes in pressure in the skin. Explain how pressure causes the cell to change its membrane potential to elicit a nerve response.


How does an atheroma increase the risk of death?


How are action potentials propagated across cholinergic synapses?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning