What are the layers of the heart from outer to inner?

The layers of the heart are organized in a specific sequence from the outermost layer to the innermost layer. The epicardium is the outer layer of the heart, which serves as a protective cover. It consists of connective tissue and is also referred to as the visceral layer of the serous pericardium.

Beneath the epicardium lies the myocardium, which is the thick muscular middle layer responsible for the heart's ability to contract and pump blood throughout the body. It is the largest layer and plays a crucial role in the heart's functionality due to its dramatic contraction and relaxation during the cardiac cycle.

The innermost layer is the endocardium, which lines the interior of the heart chambers and covers the heart valves. This smooth layer helps facilitate the flow of blood by reducing turbulence as blood moves through the heart.

Understanding this correct sequence of the heart layers — epicardium, myocardium, and endocardium — not only aids in grasping the anatomy of the heart but is also fundamental in clinical settings, where awareness of each layer's function and health is important for diagnosing and treating cardiovascular conditions.