# Explain why the coronary arteries are important to the heart, and describe what happens when fatty deposits build up inside them.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 9.2 Heart · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Coronary arteries supply the heart muscle with oxygen (and glucose/food)
2. Without this supply the heart muscle cannot respire / contract / function
3. Fatty deposits (cholesterol) build up inside the coronary arteries, narrowing the lumen
4. This reduces blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to coronary heart disease / a heart attack

## Key terms

- [coronary arteries](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/coronary-arteries)
- [fatty deposits](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/fatty-deposits)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-the-coronary-arteries-are-8e65380e) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.