Final answer:
D. increased EDV. An increased preload is equivalent to, or causes, a(n) increased EDV.
Step-by-step explanation:
An increased preload is equivalent to, or causes, a increased EDV (end diastolic volume). Preload refers to the amount of blood in the ventricles at the end of atrial systole just prior to ventricular contraction. When the preload increases, it stretches the cardiac muscle, which increases the force of ventricular contraction and ultimately leads to an increased EDV.