Reflexes

Question 1

Stretch reflex

Answer 1

Elicited by sharp tap to the tendons, which are inelastic
Force transferred to the muscle fibres which stretch and stimulate the spindles
Activates alpha motorneurones and the agonist muscle contracts
Antagonist muscle must also relax because the spindle afferents activate inhibitory interneurons which decrease alpha motorneurone transmission to the antagonist

Question 2

Reflex mediated by Golgi tendon organs

Answer 2

Inverse stretch/clasp-knife reflex
Polysynaptic and protective
Prevents over-contraction

Question 3

Flexor-withdrawal reflex

Answer 3

Use information from the nociceceptors in skin, muscles and joints
Polysynaptic and withdraw affected part of the body away from the stimulus and towards the body