Which of the following will increase as a result of arteriosclerosis?

Systolic blood pressure is the correct choice because arteriosclerosis involves the thickening and hardening of the arteries, which generally leads to a loss of elasticity. As the blood vessels become stiffer, the heart must generate greater pressure to pump blood through these narrowed pathways, resulting in an increase in systolic blood pressure. This is a common consequence of arteriosclerosis, as it directly affects how blood flows through the vascular system.

In contrast, the elasticity of blood vessels decreases due to the condition, leading to less flexible and more rigid arterial walls. Cardiac output may not necessarily increase as a direct result of arteriosclerosis; it can actually be impacted negatively because the heart might have to work harder due to increased resistance in the vessels. The number of mitochondria is more related to cellular metabolism and energy production, which is not directly affected by arteriosclerosis in the context of blood vessel changes. Thus, systolic blood pressure is the most impacted parameter due to the physiological changes caused by arteriosclerosis.