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Multiple Choice
Contraction of the pectoralis minor muscle results in which of the following actions?
A
Extends the humerus
B
Retracts the scapula
C
Elevates the scapula
D
Protracts and depresses the scapula
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by identifying the location and function of the pectoralis minor muscle. The pectoralis minor is a thin, triangular muscle located beneath the pectoralis major in the chest region. It originates from the anterior surfaces of the third, fourth, and fifth ribs and inserts onto the coracoid process of the scapula.
Step 2: Understand the role of the pectoralis minor in movement. This muscle is primarily responsible for stabilizing the scapula by pulling it downward and forward against the thoracic wall. This action is referred to as protraction and depression of the scapula.
Step 3: Analyze the options provided in the question. The actions listed include extending the humerus, retracting the scapula, elevating the scapula, and protracting and depressing the scapula. Compare these actions to the known function of the pectoralis minor.
Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options based on anatomical knowledge. Extending the humerus is a function of muscles like the latissimus dorsi and posterior deltoid, not the pectoralis minor. Retracting the scapula is performed by muscles such as the rhomboids and trapezius. Elevating the scapula is the action of the levator scapulae and upper trapezius.
Step 5: Confirm that the correct action of the pectoralis minor is protraction and depression of the scapula. This matches the anatomical function of the muscle, as it pulls the scapula forward and downward.