What is the Difference Between Auricle and Atrium?

The main difference between an auricle and an atrium lies in their structure and function within the heart. Here are the key differences:

• Auricle: An auricle is a small, earlobe-like appendage that arises from each atrium. It is also referred to as an atrial appendage. Auricles increase the holding capacity of the atria when needed but are not considered part of the main heart chamber. They provide a rough interior part to the atria, which is important for their functioning.
• Atrium: An atrium is one of the two upper chambers of the heart. The heart has four chambers: two atria and two ventricles. The atria are responsible for receiving blood entering the heart, while the more muscular ventricles pump the blood out of the heart. There are two atria, the right atrium and the left atrium, which bring blood to the heart. The right atrium receives deoxygenated blood, while the left atrium receives oxygenated blood.

In summary, an auricle is a small appendage that arises from an atrium and increases its capacity, while an atrium is an upper chamber of the heart responsible for receiving blood.

Comparative Table: Auricle vs Atrium

The difference between an auricle and an atrium lies in their structure and function within the heart. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

In summary, auricles are small appendages attached to the atria, while atria are the upper chambers of the heart responsible for receiving blood. Auricles help increase the capacity of atria and provide a rough interior surface for blood flow, while atria receive blood from the veins and pump it into the ventricles.