Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

10. Muscles

Muscle Actions

Anatomy & Physiology

10. Muscles

Muscle Actions

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following is an action of the gastrocnemius muscle?

Plantar flexion of the foot at the ankle

Extension of the knee

Dorsiflexion of the foot at the ankle

Flexion of the hip

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the anatomy and function of the gastrocnemius muscle: The gastrocnemius is a large muscle located in the posterior compartment of the lower leg. It is one of the primary muscles involved in movement at the ankle and knee joints.

Identify the primary action of the gastrocnemius muscle: The gastrocnemius is responsible for plantar flexion of the foot at the ankle joint, which involves pointing the toes downward. This action is crucial for activities like walking, running, and jumping.

Eliminate incorrect options based on the muscle's function: The gastrocnemius does not perform dorsiflexion (lifting the toes upward) or flexion of the hip, as these actions involve different muscles. Additionally, while the gastrocnemius assists in knee flexion, it does not extend the knee.

Relate the muscle's action to its anatomical attachment points: The gastrocnemius originates from the femur (medial and lateral condyles) and inserts into the calcaneus via the Achilles tendon. This anatomical structure allows it to perform plantar flexion effectively.

Confirm the correct answer: Based on the muscle's function and anatomical structure, the correct action of the gastrocnemius muscle is plantar flexion of the foot at the ankle joint.