What does the T wave represent in an EKG reading?

The T wave in an EKG reading represents the process of ventricular repolarization, which is when the ventricles recover and prepare for the next heartbeat. Normally, the T wave is oriented in the same direction as the preceding QRS complex, reflecting the electrical activity of the heart during the repolarization phase.

When the T wave is aligned in this way, it indicates a healthy and coordinated heart rhythm. This alignment signifies that the electrical activity is progressing correctly, allowing the heart chambers to reset after contraction.

Other choices do not accurately describe the T wave's function. For instance, while atrial depolarization is represented by the P wave, it is unrelated to the T wave. Additionally, the T wave does not indicate ventricular systole; that phase is reflected in the QRS complex. Lastly, electrical inactivity in the heart is not shown by the T wave; rather, it implies no active electrical activity, which is not the case during this phase of the cardiac cycle.