The Giant Heart

The Giant Heart is a prominent exhibit located at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This exhibit is a large-scale model of the human heart, designed to educate visitors about the anatomy and function of this vital organ.

History

The Giant Heart exhibit was first introduced in 1954. It was created to provide an interactive and educational experience for visitors, allowing them to walk through the chambers of the heart and learn about its structure and function. Over the years, the exhibit has been updated and renovated to incorporate new scientific knowledge and interactive elements.

Design and Features

The Giant Heart is approximately two stories tall and is designed to represent the heart of a person who is 220 feet tall. Visitors can walk through the heart, starting at the superior vena cava and moving through the right atrium, right ventricle, pulmonary artery, left atrium, and left ventricle. The exhibit includes detailed models of the heart valves, coronary arteries, and other key structures.

Interactive Elements

The exhibit features various interactive elements, including:

• Audio guides that explain the function of each part of the heart.
• Touchscreens with detailed information about heart health and cardiovascular disease.
• Models and diagrams that illustrate the flow of blood through the heart and the circulatory system.

Educational Impact

The Giant Heart has been a significant educational tool for visitors of all ages. It provides a hands-on learning experience that helps people understand the complexity of the human heart and the importance of maintaining heart health. The exhibit is particularly popular among school groups and families.

Renovations and Updates

The exhibit has undergone several renovations since its inception. The most recent update included the addition of new interactive displays and the incorporation of the latest medical research. These updates ensure that the exhibit remains a relevant and valuable educational resource.

Location and Accessibility

The Giant Heart is located in the Franklin Institute, one of the oldest and most prestigious science museums in the United States. The museum is accessible to visitors with disabilities, and the exhibit is designed to accommodate a wide range of visitors.

See Also

• Franklin Institute
• Human heart
• Cardiovascular system
• Heart disease

External Links

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