How does the Frank-Starling curve affect stroke volume during exercise?
A) The increased sympathetic stimulation causes the heart to be faster with smaller stroke volumes
B) The Frank-Starling curve is only activated when the heart rate reaches 90% of the maximum targeted rate
C) The increased venous return causes cardiac chambers to increase in size and thus contract with more force
D) The Frank-Starling law only affects heart rate, not stroke volume

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Frank-Starling law of the heart states that the stroke volume of the heart increases in response to an increase in the volume of blood filling the heart (the end diastolic volume) when all other factors remain constant. During exercise, increased venous return fills the cardiac chambers more, which according to the Frank-Starling mechanism, allows the heart to contract more forcefully, thereby increasing stroke volume.

How Does the Frank-Starling Curve Affect Stroke Volume During Exercise