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Multiple Choice
A muscle that opposes, or reverses, a particular movement is called a(n):
A
agonist
B
fixator
C
antagonist
D
synergist
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the terminology used in the question. The term 'antagonist' refers to a muscle that opposes or reverses the action of another muscle during movement.
Step 2: Review the roles of other muscle types mentioned in the question: 'agonist' is the primary muscle responsible for a movement, 'synergist' assists the agonist, and 'fixator' stabilizes the origin of the agonist.
Step 3: Relate the concept of 'antagonist' to real-life examples. For instance, during elbow flexion, the biceps brachii acts as the agonist, while the triceps brachii serves as the antagonist by opposing the flexion.
Step 4: Recognize that muscles work in pairs to create smooth and controlled movements. The antagonist muscle ensures balance and prevents excessive motion by opposing the agonist.
Step 5: Apply this understanding to the question and confirm that the correct answer is 'antagonist,' as it matches the definition provided in the problem.