The pulse pressure is . A) systolic pressure plus diastolic pressure B) systolic pressure minus diastolic pressure C) systolic pressure divided by diastolic pressure D) diastolic pressure plus 1/3 (systolic pressure plus diastolic pressure)

The option (B) is correct. The force generated by the heart in each contraction is the pulse pressure.  Millimeters of mercury (mmHg) is the measuring unit for the pulse pressure.

Explanation:The higher systolic pressure when subtracted from the lower diastolic pressure, gives the pulse pressure. Pulse pressure is directly and inversely proportional to the stroke volume and compliance respectively.

If the pulse pressure is 25% less than the systolic value, it is known as the Low (Narrow) Pulse Pressure. Cardiogenic shock and trauma generally results in this condition.  High (Wide) Pulse Pressure is approximately 100 mmHg in contrast to the normal pulse pressure that is 30–40 mmHg. This is usually observed during heavy exercise that marks the increase in the stroke volume and eventually the pulse pressure. Medication like angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE inhibitor) is administered to cure this condition.