How is stroke volume (SV) calculated?

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Prepare for the UCF APK4125C Kinesiology Exam. Review with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations to enhance understanding. Get ready to succeed in your final exam!

Stroke volume (SV) is defined as the volume of blood pumped from the left ventricle of the heart with each heartbeat. It is calculated using the difference between two key measurements: end-diastolic volume (EDV) and end-systolic volume (ESV).

EDV represents the total volume of blood in the ventricles at the end of filling (diastole), while ESV is the volume of blood remaining in the ventricles after contraction (systole). Therefore, to find the stroke volume, one subtracts ESV from EDV. This mathematical relationship reveals how much blood is actually ejected during a heartbeat, making it a critical indicator of cardiac function.

Understanding this calculation is essential for assessing cardiovascular health and performance, as stroke volume is a key component in determining cardiac output when multiplied by heart rate. This means that a clear grasp of the stroke volume formula helps in comprehending more complex cardiovascular concepts and the dynamics of heart function.