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Multiple Choice
Which portion of the ECG cycle overlaps with the expected ventricular contraction (systole)?
A
P wave
B
QRS complex
C
U wave
D
T wave
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the components of the ECG cycle. The ECG (electrocardiogram) represents the electrical activity of the heart. Key components include the P wave, QRS complex, T wave, and sometimes a U wave.
Step 2: Recall the physiological events associated with each component. The P wave corresponds to atrial depolarization, the QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization, and the T wave reflects ventricular repolarization. The U wave is less commonly seen and its significance is debated.
Step 3: Connect electrical activity to mechanical events. Ventricular contraction (systole) begins shortly after ventricular depolarization, which is represented by the QRS complex on the ECG.
Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options. The P wave is associated with atrial activity, not ventricular contraction. The T wave represents repolarization, which occurs after systole. The U wave is not directly related to systole.
Step 5: Conclude that the QRS complex overlaps with the expected ventricular contraction (systole), as it represents the electrical signal that triggers the mechanical contraction of the ventricles.