Muscle Unit Review

Front

What is a muscle cramp?

Back

A muscle cramp is an involuntary and forcibly contracted muscle that does not relax. It often occurs due to extracellular fluid imbalances.

Front

What is oxygen debt?

Back

Oxygen debt refers to the amount of oxygen required to restore the body to its normal state after exercise, leading to the production of lactic acid when oxygen is insufficient.

Front

What does 'all or none response' mean in muscle contraction?

Back

The 'all or none response' means that when a muscle fiber is stimulated, it contracts fully or not at all, regardless of the strength of the stimulus.

Front

What is crossbridge formation in muscle contraction?

Back

Crossbridge formation occurs when myosin heads bind to actin filaments, allowing muscle contraction to take place.

Front

What is an agonist muscle?

Back

An agonist muscle is the primary muscle responsible for a specific movement, often referred to as the prime mover.

Front

What is ATP debt?

Back

ATP debt occurs when the demand for ATP exceeds the supply, often during intense exercise, leading to muscle fatigue.

Front

What is lactic acid?

Back

Lactic acid is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism, produced when glucose is broken down for energy without sufficient oxygen.

Front

What is tetanus in muscle physiology?

Back

Tetanus is a sustained muscle contraction that occurs when stimuli are delivered in rapid succession, preventing relaxation.

Front

What role does calcium play in muscle contraction?

Back

Calcium ions are released from the sarcoplasmic reticulum and bind to troponin, allowing myosin to bind to actin and initiate contraction.

Front

What is the function of synergist muscles?

Back

Synergist muscles assist the agonist in performing a movement, helping to stabilize or enhance the action.