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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes what happens during the T wave of an ECG?
A
Ventricular depolarization
B
Ventricular repolarization
C
Atrial repolarization
D
Atrial depolarization
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the components of an ECG: An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It consists of several waves, including the P wave, QRS complex, and T wave.
Identify the T wave: The T wave represents the phase of the cardiac cycle where the ventricles are repolarizing. This is the period when the ventricles recover from the depolarization that occurs during the QRS complex.
Differentiate between depolarization and repolarization: Depolarization refers to the process of the heart muscle cells becoming electrically activated, leading to contraction. Repolarization is the process of the heart muscle cells returning to their resting state after contraction.
Relate the T wave to ventricular repolarization: During the T wave, the ventricles undergo repolarization, which is the recovery phase after they have contracted. This is distinct from depolarization, which is associated with the QRS complex.
Clarify why other options are incorrect: Atrial depolarization is represented by the P wave, and atrial repolarization is not distinctly visible on a standard ECG as it occurs during the QRS complex. Ventricular depolarization is represented by the QRS complex, not the T wave.