The human heart consists of four chambers - two upper atria and two lower ventricles separated by muscular walls. The left atrium opens to the left ventricle and right atrium to the right ventricle. Valves between the atria and ventricles ensure blood flows in only one direction. Arteries carry blood away from the heart while veins bring blood back to the heart. Valves at the beginning of arteries also prevent backflow of blood from the arteries into the heart.