Muscle System and Muscle Tissue

These flashcards encompass key concepts related to the structure, types, and functions of muscles, as well as their mechanics and anatomy relevant for exam preparation.

What are the three types of muscle tissue?

Skeletal, Cardiac, and Smooth.

What is the primary function of skeletal muscle?

To facilitate overall body mobility.

Define a motor unit.

A motor unit consists of a motor neuron and all the muscle fibers it innervates.

Explain the difference between twitch and muscle gradation.

A twitch is a single contraction of a muscle fiber, while muscle gradation refers to the varying degrees of muscle contraction strength.

What are the characteristics of muscle tissue?

Excitability, Conductivity, Contractility, Extensibility, Elasticity.

Where are smooth muscles typically found?

In the walls of hollow organs, such as blood vessels and visceral organs.

What is the role of cardiac muscle?

To contract involuntarily and pump blood throughout the body.

What surrounds each muscle fiber?

Endomysium.

What is the functional contractile unit of skeletal muscle?

The sarcomere.

Which muscle type is known for being striated and voluntary?

Skeletal muscle.

What is the role of perimysium in skeletal muscle?

It bundles muscle fibers into fascicles.

What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic muscles?

Intrinsic muscles are entirely contained within a region, while extrinsic muscles act on a designated region but originate from another area.

Name the four categories of muscle action.

Prime mover, Synergist, Antagonist, Fixator.

What is the sliding filament mechanism?

It describes how myosin and actin filaments slide past each other during muscle contraction.

What is the function of myoglobin in muscle fibers?

It stores oxygen in muscle cells.

Explain the importance of the neuromuscular junction.

It is where the motor neuron communicates with muscle fibers to initiate contraction.