REPOLARIZATION Meaning and
Definition
-
Repolarization is a physiological process that occurs during the heartbeat and refers to the phase in which a depolarized cell or tissue returns to its resting state by restoring the electrochemical gradient across the cell membrane. This process is essential in coordinating the proper functioning of the heart and other excitable tissues.
During repolarization, the cell or tissue undergoes a series of molecular events that cause the ions, which were previously distributed unevenly across the cell membrane during depolarization, to return to their original locations. In the context of the cardiac cycle, it involves the movement of potassium ions out of the cell while sodium and calcium ions are actively pumped back inside. As a result, the membrane potential becomes negative, reestablishing the electrical polarity across the membrane.
Repolarization is essential for the heart to relax and prepare for the next contraction, allowing the heart to fill with blood and maintain proper blood circulation. Abnormal repolarization can lead to various cardiac rhythm disorders, such as arrhythmias, which can result in an inefficient or irregular heartbeat.
In conclusion, repolarization is a critical process in which cells regain their resting state after depolarization, allowing the proper functioning and coordination of excitable tissues, particularly in the context of the cardiac cycle.
Common Misspellings for REPOLARIZATION
- eepolarization
- depolarization
- fepolarization
- tepolarization
- 5epolarization
- 4epolarization
- rwpolarization
- rspolarization
- rdpolarization
- rrpolarization
- r4polarization
- r3polarization
- reoolarization
- relolarization
- re0olarization
- repilarization
- repklarization
- repllarization
- repplarization
- rep0larization
Etymology of REPOLARIZATION
The word "repolarization" is derived from the prefix "re-" meaning "again" or "backward" and the word "polarization", which refers to the process of creating positive and negative electric charges in a cell or organ. "Repolarization" specifically refers to reversing or restoring the electrical charge across a cell membrane or restoring the resting state of a cell after depolarization.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
