The long refractory period observed in cardiac muscle

A) prolongs depolarization of the cardiac muscle.
B) prevents tetanic contractions of the cardiac muscle.
C) ensures that the heart has adequate time to contract.
D) prevents the heart rate from slowing down.
E) prevents an increase in heart rate.

Refractory Period

Period following effective stimulation during which excitable tissue, such as heart muscle, fails to respond to a stimulus of threshold intensity.

Cardiac Muscle

Muscle tissue found only in the heart, characterized by its ability to contract involuntarily and rhythmically.

Tetanic Contractions

Sustained muscle contractions that occur when the muscles do not relax between stimuli, leading to a smooth and steady contraction.