Question

Which of the following scenarios would be most likely to cause a weak point in the aorta to rupture, and why? (2 points)

High systolic, because when the heart pumps, the pressure inside the aorta would be greatest, causing the weak spot to rupture outward.
Low systolic, because when the heart pumps, the pressure surrounding the aorta would be greatest, causing the weak spot to rupture inward.
High diastolic, because when the heart relaxes, the pressure inside the aorta would be greatest, causing the weak spot to rupture outward.
Low diastolic, because when the heart relaxes, the pressure surrounding the aorta would be greatest, causing the weak spot to rupture inward.

Answer 1

The correct answer is "High systolic, because when the heart pumps, the pressure inside the aorta would be greatest, causing the weak spot to rupture outward".

High systolic means the pressure generated due to the contraction of heart. As soon as heart will contract it will tend to squeeze out the blood accumulated inside it. Because of this out rush, this blood will enter the aorta and exert great pressure on the walls of the aorta. This high pressure will impact weak spot in the aorta adversely and cause it to bulge out.

Answer 2

I believe the answer is,

High systolic, because when the heart pumps, the pressure inside the aorta would be greatest, causing the weak spot to rupture outward.

This indicates high blood pressure that causes rupture of the aorta or aorta dissection.