valvul

Valvul is a term used in biology and engineering to denote a valve, a structure that regulates passage by opening and closing.

In anatomy, valves are essential for directing fluid flow. The heart contains atrioventricular valves (mitral and tricuspid) that separate the atria from the ventricles, and semilunar valves (aortic and pulmonary) between ventricles and their great arteries. Some veins also have valves to prevent backflow.

In botany and other organisms, valve-like structures can regulate the release of contents; for example, certain fruit capsules open along valves to disperse seeds.

In medicine, the study of valves includes valvulopathy and valvular disease, which can involve stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage). Treatments range from medical management to surgery such as valve repair or replacement.

In engineering, valves control the flow of liquids and gases in pipes and machines. Common types include ball, gate, globe, check, and butterfly valves, which operate by moving a barrier to allow or block passage.

The root valvul- or valvula derives from Latin valvula, meaning small valve, and appears in many medical terms, including valvuloplasty, valvulopathy, and valvular. It is used as a combining form in several languages to refer to valves and valve-like structures.