What is the primary function of valves located in the heart?

The primary function of the valves located in the heart is to regulate the flow of blood through its chambers. These valves ensure that blood flows in a single direction, preventing any backflow as the heart contracts and relaxes. Each valve opens and closes in response to pressure changes within the heart, allowing for an efficient and coordinated movement of blood through the atria and ventricles, as well as into and out of the heart into major arteries such as the aorta and pulmonary artery.

The other options do not accurately reflect the role of the heart valves. For example, regulating nutrient absorption pertains to the function of the digestive system rather than the heart. Supporting blood vessel structure relates to the anatomy of blood vessels themselves, which is separate from the functional role of heart valves. Facilitating gas exchange occurs in the lungs, not in the heart, emphasizing that each component of the circulatory system has a unique and essential function.