# Describe how a doctor can use an electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess the condition of a patient's heart. Include in your answer what an ECG measures and what information it provides.

> AQA A-Level Physics (7408) — 3.10.3 Biological Measurement · Describe · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. An ECG records/detects the electrical activity of the heart
2. The ECG produces a trace/pattern showing voltage against time
3. The trace can be used to determine heart rate / how many times the heart beats per minute
4. An irregular trace / abnormal pattern indicates an irregular heartbeat / arrhythmia / problem with the heart
5. A normal ECG trace has a regular repeating pattern, so differences from normal indicate a fault / disease / damage to the heart

## Key terms

- [electrocardiogram](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/electrocardiogram)
- [ECG](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ecg)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Physics (7408)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-how-a-doctor-can-use-f59b0fff) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.