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Multiple Choice
The biceps brachii and brachialis both perform which of the following actions?
A
Abduction of the shoulder
B
Flexion of the elbow
C
Extension of the elbow
D
Pronation of the forearm
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by identifying the anatomical location and function of the biceps brachii and brachialis muscles. The biceps brachii is located in the anterior compartment of the upper arm and is primarily responsible for flexion of the elbow and supination of the forearm. The brachialis is also located in the anterior compartment and is a major flexor of the elbow.
Step 2: Understand the action of flexion at the elbow joint. Flexion refers to the movement that decreases the angle between the forearm and the upper arm, bringing the forearm closer to the body.
Step 3: Evaluate the other options provided in the question. Abduction of the shoulder involves moving the arm away from the midline of the body, which is performed by muscles like the deltoid, not the biceps brachii or brachialis. Extension of the elbow involves increasing the angle at the elbow joint, which is performed by the triceps brachii. Pronation of the forearm involves rotating the forearm so the palm faces downward, which is performed by muscles like the pronator teres and pronator quadratus.
Step 4: Compare the correct answer, 'Flexion of the elbow,' with the known actions of the biceps brachii and brachialis. Both muscles are involved in flexing the elbow joint, making this the correct choice.
Step 5: Conclude that the biceps brachii and brachialis are synergistic muscles that work together to perform flexion of the elbow, and this action aligns with their anatomical function and location.