2 (a) Diagram 1 shows the electrocardiogram (ECG) trace for a single heartbeat - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 2
2 (a) Diagram 1 shows the electrocardiogram (ECG) trace for a single heartbeat.
On the vertical scale each square represents 0.2 mV.
Complete the sentence by putting... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2 (a) Diagram 1 shows the electrocardiogram (ECG) trace for a single heartbeat - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
The potential difference between R and S is about:
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Answer
To find the potential difference between points R and S, we determine the value of the peak-to-peak amplitude. Since each square represents 0.2 mV, we can count the number of squares between R and S. Assuming it spans approximately 4.5 squares, we calculate the voltage as:
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Answer
To convert frequency to heart rate in beats per minute, we use:
extHeartRate=extFrequencyimes60
Using the frequency from part (b)(ii) of 1.25 Hz:
extHeartRate=1.25extHzimes60=75extbeatsperminute
Step 4
Suggest how good contact is made between the patient's skin and the electrodes of the ECG machine.
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Answer
Good contact is achieved by ensuring the electrodes are properly adhered to the skin, often using conductive gel or adhesive patches that minimize impedance and facilitate transmission of the electrical signals from the heart.
Step 5
Describe what a pacemaker does when it is put inside the body of a patient.
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Answer
A pacemaker sends electrical signals to the heart, helping to regulate the heart rhythm. It detects heart rate and can deliver impulses to maintain a normal heartbeat, thus ensuring proper cardiac function.