The human heart contains four chambers: two atria superiorly and two ventricles inferiorly. The left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the pulmonary veins exiting the lungs. This blood is then propelled into the left ventricle, which then circulates it to the systemic circulation via the aorta.
The functions of the remaining chambers are as follows:
- Right atrium: Gathers deoxygenated blood from the body through the superior and inferior vena cava, subsequently transferring it to the right ventricle.
- Right ventricle: Propels deoxygenated blood toward the pulmonary arteries, which transport it to the lungs for oxygen replenishment.
- Left ventricle: Accepts oxygenated blood from the left atrium and ejects it into the aorta for systemic distribution; it does not directly receive blood from the lungs.
Consequently, the left atrium is the chamber responsible for receiving oxygenated blood from the lungs.