What does the relative refractory period of a t wave represent?

The relative refractory period of the T wave in the cardiac cycle represents a phase during which the heart muscle is partially repolarized and can be stimulated to contract again, but only by a stronger-than-normal stimulus. This period follows the absolute refractory period, where the heart cannot be stimulated regardless of the strength of the stimulus. The relative refractory period is crucial for maintaining the heart's rhythm and preventing arrhythmias, as it indicates the time during which the cardiac cells are recovering but not fully ready for another action potential.