skeletal and neuromuscular systems

Question 1

What is a joint and its primary function?

Answer 1

A joint is where two bones meet, and its primary function is to allow movement.

Question 2

Name and describe the different types of joints.

Answer 2

Fixed (e.g., in the cranium), cartilaginous (cartilage between bones), synovial (synovial fluid as a lubricant).

Question 3

What does ‘degrees of freedom’ mean in relation to joints?

Answer 3

The number of planes in which a joint can move, corresponding to its degrees of freedom.

Question 4

What are the different types of muscles?

Answer 4

Cardiac (heart, involuntary), smooth (gut, involuntary), skeletal (voluntary, controlled by the somatic nervous system).

Question 5

Describe the architecture of a skeletal muscle.

Answer 5

Myofibrils make up muscle fibers, which bundle into fascicles, all bound by connective tissue (epimysium, perimysium, endomysium).

Question 6

Explain the sliding filament theory.

Answer 6

Muscle contraction occurs when myosin heads attach to actin filaments, using ATP to move and shorten the sarcomere, leading to muscle shortening.

Question 7

What is the length-tension relationship in muscles?

Answer 7

Muscle force depends on the number of cross-bridges; optimal force is produced at resting length, with reduced force when muscle is too stretched or too contracted.

Question 8

What are the different types of muscle contractions?

Answer 8

Isotonic (concentric and eccentric), isometric (no movement), and isokinetic (constant rate with varying tension).

Question 9

What are the different roles of muscles during movement?

Answer 9

Agonist (prime mover), antagonist (opposes movement), synergist (assists agonist), fixator/stabilizer (stabilizes joints).

Question 10

What is a motor unit?

Answer 10

A single motor neuron