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Multiple Choice
What causes the myosin head to release its attachment to actin during muscle contraction?
A
The hydrolysis of ATP to ADP and inorganic phosphate
B
The release of calcium ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum
C
The influx of calcium ions into the sarcoplasm
D
The binding of ATP to the myosin head
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of myosin and actin in muscle contraction: Myosin heads bind to actin filaments to form cross-bridges, which are essential for muscle contraction.
Recognize the importance of ATP in muscle contraction: ATP is crucial for the detachment of myosin heads from actin filaments, allowing the cycle of muscle contraction to continue.
Identify the specific action of ATP: The binding of ATP to the myosin head causes a conformational change, leading to the release of the myosin head from the actin filament.
Differentiate between ATP binding and hydrolysis: While ATP binding causes the release of the myosin head, the hydrolysis of ATP to ADP and inorganic phosphate provides the energy for the myosin head to return to its original position.
Connect the process to muscle relaxation: Once the myosin head is released, the muscle can relax or prepare for another contraction cycle, depending on the presence of calcium ions and further ATP availability.