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Multiple Choice
Which term describes a muscle that relaxes while its agonist contracts during movement?
A
Antagonist
B
Prime mover
C
Synergist
D
Fixator
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the roles of muscles during movement: Muscles work in pairs to create movement. When one muscle contracts (the agonist), another muscle must relax to allow the movement to occur. This relaxed muscle is referred to as the antagonist.
Define the term 'agonist': The agonist is the primary muscle responsible for producing a specific movement. It contracts to create the desired action.
Define the term 'antagonist': The antagonist is the muscle that opposes the action of the agonist. It relaxes to allow the agonist to perform its movement effectively.
Differentiate between other terms: A 'synergist' is a muscle that assists the agonist in performing its action, while a 'fixator' stabilizes the origin of the agonist to ensure smooth movement.
Identify the correct term: Based on the definitions, the term that describes a muscle relaxing while its agonist contracts is 'antagonist.'