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Multiple Choice
At what point in the cardiac cycle does the semilunar valve open?
A
During atrial systole
B
During ventricular systole
C
During ventricular diastole
D
During isovolumetric relaxation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the cardiac cycle phases: The cardiac cycle consists of atrial systole, ventricular systole, and ventricular diastole.
Identify the role of the semilunar valves: These valves prevent backflow from the arteries into the ventricles and open to allow blood to be ejected from the heart.
Recognize when the semilunar valves open: They open during ventricular systole when the pressure in the ventricles exceeds the pressure in the arteries.
Differentiate between the phases: During atrial systole, the atria contract to fill the ventricles. During ventricular diastole, the ventricles relax and fill with blood. During isovolumetric relaxation, the ventricles relax but the semilunar valves remain closed.
Conclude that the semilunar valves open during ventricular systole, allowing blood to flow from the ventricles into the aorta and pulmonary artery.