What do T waves represent on an ECG?

T waves on an ECG represent ventricular repolarization. This process occurs after the ventricles have contracted and pumped blood out of the heart. During the T wave, the electrical activity reflects the heart's return to its resting state, as the ventricular muscle cells repolarize. This phase is crucial because it prepares the ventricles for the next contraction, ensuring efficient heart function and proper blood circulation.

Understanding the role of the T wave is essential for interpreting heart rhythms and diagnosing various cardiac conditions. Changes in the T wave, such as their shape or size, can indicate issues like ischemia or electrolyte imbalances, which can significantly affect a patient's health.