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Multiple Choice
Which component of an electrocardiogram (ECG) represents atrial depolarization?
A
ST segment
B
P wave
C
QRS complex
D
T wave
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the components of an electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG is a recording of the electrical activity of the heart over time. It consists of several waves and segments, each representing different phases of the cardiac cycle.
Identify the P wave: The P wave is the first wave in the ECG cycle. It represents the electrical activity associated with the depolarization of the atria, which is the process that initiates atrial contraction.
Differentiate between the components: The QRS complex follows the P wave and represents ventricular depolarization, while the T wave represents ventricular repolarization. The ST segment is the flat section between the QRS complex and the T wave.
Focus on atrial depolarization: Since the question asks about atrial depolarization, we need to identify which component of the ECG corresponds to this phase.
Conclude with the correct component: Based on the understanding of ECG components, the P wave is the part of the ECG that represents atrial depolarization.