Chapter 9 Study Guide

Front

What is the primary function of skeletal muscle?

Back

The primary function of skeletal muscle is to facilitate movement by contracting and exerting force on bones.

Front

What is NOT a function of skeletal muscle?

Back

Circulates blood through the body.

Front

What happens to muscle fibers as a person ages?

Back

Muscle fibers do not become shorter; instead, they may decrease in number and size.

Front

What is the process called that converts action potentials in a muscle fiber to a contraction?

Back

Excitation-contraction coupling.

Front

How do skeletal muscles exert a pull on bones?

Back

Skeletal muscles are attached to bones by tendons.

Front

What type of muscle cells are spindle-shaped with a single, centrally located nucleus?

Back

Smooth muscle cells.

Front

What are the three types of muscle tissue in the human body?

Back

Skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, and smooth muscle.

Front

What is the role of tendons in the muscular system?

Back

Tendons connect muscles to bones, allowing for movement.

Front

What is the difference between voluntary and involuntary muscle?

Back

Voluntary muscles are controlled consciously (e.g., skeletal muscles), while involuntary muscles operate without conscious control (e.g., cardiac and smooth muscles).

Front

What is the significance of the neuromuscular junction?

Back

The neuromuscular junction is the site where a motor neuron communicates with a muscle fiber, initiating contraction.