Question

which explains why the foramen ovale remains open during fetal life? multiple choice pressure in the aorta exceeds pressure in the rest of the systemic vessels. pressure in the right atrium is higher than the left. pressure in the left side of the heart is greater than the right.

Explanation:

In fetal life, the foramen ovale remains open because the pressure in the right atrium is higher than in the left atrium. This pressure - gradient allows blood to shunt from the right atrium to the left atrium, bypassing the non - functioning fetal lungs.

Answer:

Pressure in the right atrium is higher than the left.