A Level Biology Practice Exam

What heart condition is characterized by a resting heart rate over 100 beats per minute?

1. Bradycardia

2. Tachycardia

3. Arrhythmia

4. Atrial flutter

The correct answer is: Tachycardia

The condition characterized by a resting heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute is known as tachycardia. This elevated heart rate can occur in various situations, such as during exercise, stress, or due to underlying medical conditions like fever or hyperthyroidism. In a healthy individual, tachycardia can be a normal response to increased physical demands, but persistent tachycardia may require further evaluation to determine the underlying cause. This condition contrasts with bradycardia, where the heart rate is abnormally low, and arrhythmia, which involves irregular heartbeats. Atrial flutter is a specific type of arrhythmia, not primarily defined by the resting heart rate alone.