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Multiple Choice
Which muscle is an antagonist to the biceps brachii muscle?
A
Pectoralis major
B
Latissimus dorsi
C
Triceps brachii
D
Deltoid
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of muscle antagonism: In anatomy, an antagonist muscle is one that opposes the action of another muscle, known as the agonist. When the agonist contracts, the antagonist relaxes or stretches to allow movement.
Identify the primary function of the biceps brachii: The biceps brachii is a muscle located in the upper arm. Its main function is to flex the elbow and supinate the forearm, meaning it helps to bend the arm at the elbow and rotate the forearm so the palm faces upward.
Determine the opposing action: To find the antagonist, consider the opposite action of the biceps brachii. The opposite of flexing the elbow is extending the elbow.
Identify the muscle responsible for elbow extension: The triceps brachii is the muscle primarily responsible for extending the elbow. It is located on the back of the upper arm and works to straighten the arm at the elbow joint.
Conclude the relationship: Since the triceps brachii extends the elbow, opposing the flexion action of the biceps brachii, it is the antagonist to the biceps brachii.