Which of the following mechanisms causes hypertension?

A) Arteriosclerosis results in increased elasticity of the arteries, causing vasodilation and increased arteriolar capacity.
B) Atherosclerotic plaque narrows one or more of the coronary arteries, resulting in increased cardiac perfusion.
C) Increased afterload stimulates the Frank-Starling reflex, which raises the pressure behind the blood leaving the heart.
D) Heart rate that is persistently above 80 beats/min causes an increase in cardiac output and a resultant increase in blood pressure.

Answer: C) Increased afterload stimulates the Frank-Starling reflex, which raises the pressure behind the blood leaving the heart.