What is the purpose of the T wave in the cardiac cycle?

The T wave is a crucial component of the cardiac cycle, representing the process of ventricular repolarization. During this phase, the ventricles of the heart are returning to their resting state after contraction. This repolarization occurs following ventricular depolarization, which is showcased by the QRS complex in the electrocardiogram (ECG).

Understanding the distinction between repolarization and depolarization is essential in interpreting the ECG. The T wave reflects the electrical activity that helps reset the ventricles' electrical state, preparing them for the next heartbeat. It is vital for maintaining the heart's rhythm and ensuring that the cardiac muscle can contract properly during subsequent cycles. Overall, recognizing the T wave's role in ventricular repolarization is key to understanding cardiac physiology and the electrocardiographic representation of heart activity.