What is the function of the interventricular septum?

The interventricular septum serves the critical function of separating the left and right ventricles of the heart. This muscular wall ensures that oxygenated blood in the left ventricle does not mix with deoxygenated blood in the right ventricle, maintaining efficient circulation. The separation is essential for the proper functioning of the heart's dual pumping system—where the left side pumps oxygen-rich blood to the body, and the right side pumps oxygen-poor blood to the lungs for oxygenation. If the septum were compromised or not present, it could lead to serious complications, such as mixing of blood and decreased efficiency of the heart's pumping ability.

Other options represent various functions within the cardiovascular system, but they do not pertain specifically to the primary role of the interventricular septum.