Final answer:
The S2 heart sound, described as a 'dub', is produced by the closing of the semilunar valves during ventricular diastole, leading to turbulent blood flow as the valves close.
Step-by-step explanation:
When auscultating a patient's apical pulse, you listen for the S1 and S2 heart sounds. The S2 sound, often described as a "dub," is produced when the semilunar valves close during ventricular diastole. The closure of these valves causes a reduction in the openings within the atrioventricular septum, leading to turbulent blood flow until the valves are fully closed. This turbulence creates the characteristic S2 sound.