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Multiple Choice
Which muscle fiber type has the highest shortening velocity?
A
Fast oxidative fibers (Type IIa)
B
Slow oxidative fibers (Type I)
C
Cardiac muscle fibers
D
Fast glycolytic fibers (Type IIb)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of muscle fiber types: Muscle fibers are categorized based on their contraction speed, metabolic pathways, and fatigue resistance. The main types are Type I (slow oxidative), Type IIa (fast oxidative), and Type IIb (fast glycolytic). Cardiac muscle fibers are specialized for continuous rhythmic contractions and are not classified in the same way as skeletal muscle fibers.
Review the characteristics of Type IIb (fast glycolytic) fibers: These fibers are designed for rapid, powerful contractions and rely primarily on anaerobic metabolism. They have the highest shortening velocity due to their fast myosin ATPase activity and ability to generate force quickly.
Compare shortening velocities: Type I fibers (slow oxidative) have the lowest shortening velocity because they are adapted for endurance and rely on aerobic metabolism. Type IIa fibers (fast oxidative) have intermediate shortening velocity, combining both aerobic and anaerobic metabolism. Type IIb fibers (fast glycolytic) have the highest shortening velocity, optimized for short bursts of intense activity.
Exclude cardiac muscle fibers: Cardiac muscle fibers are specialized for rhythmic contractions and are not directly comparable to skeletal muscle fibers in terms of shortening velocity. They are designed for endurance and continuous activity rather than rapid shortening.
Conclude that Type IIb (fast glycolytic) fibers have the highest shortening velocity: This is due to their fast myosin ATPase activity and reliance on anaerobic metabolism, which supports rapid and powerful contractions.