Question

In an ECG pattern, the T wave is caused by

Select one:
a. depolarization of ventricular muscle fibers.
b. repolarization of atrial muscle fibers.
c. repolarization of ventricular muscle fibers.
d. depolarization of atrial muscle fibers.
e. none of the above.

Answer 1

The T wave in an ECG pattern represents the repolarization of ventricular muscle fibers, which occurs after the ventricles have contracted and are relaxing.

Step-by-step explanation:

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) displays the electrical activity of the heart and is an important tool for assessing heart health. The waveform on an ECG includes several components: the P wave, QRS complex, and T wave. The P wave signifies atrial depolarization, which leads to the contraction of the atria. The large QRS complex indicates ventricular depolarization, which causes contraction of the ventricles.

This is a result of a stronger electrical signal needed due to the larger size of the ventricular muscle. The T wave follows and is indicative of ventricular repolarization, which occurs after the ventricles contract and begin to relax. It's also important to note that the repolarization of the atria happens during the QRS complex but is not visible on the ECG because it is masked by the strong signal of ventricular depolarization.