Final answer:
The normal duration of the QRS complex in adults is 0.06 to 0.10 seconds, and deviations from this range may indicate abnormalities in the ventricular conduction pathway.
Step-by-step explanation:
The normal duration of the QRS complex in adults is typically 0.06 to 0.10 seconds (60 to 100 milliseconds). This duration represents the time required for the depolarization of the ventricles, which is necessary for their contraction. If the electrical impulse does not follow the standard conduction pathway through the ventricles, this could result in a longer depolarization process, leading to a wider QRS complex on the electrocardiogram (ECG).
Conditions that disrupt the normal ventricular conduction pathway, such as bundle branch blocks or ventricular hypertrophy, can cause an abnormal QRS duration.