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Multiple Choice
Which muscle is the largest in the human body by mass?
A
Masseter
B
Gluteus maximus
C
Diaphragm
D
Sartorius
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the question asks for the largest muscle in the human body by mass, which means the muscle with the greatest weight or bulk, not necessarily the longest or strongest.
Recall the functions and locations of the muscles listed: the Masseter is a facial muscle involved in chewing, the Diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle important for breathing, the Sartorius is a long, thin muscle running down the thigh, and the Gluteus maximus is a large muscle in the buttocks responsible for hip movement.
Consider the size and mass of these muscles: the Gluteus maximus is known to be the largest muscle by mass because it covers a large area and is heavily involved in powerful movements like standing up, climbing, and maintaining posture.
Eliminate the other options based on their size and function: the Masseter is strong but small, the Diaphragm is essential but relatively thin, and the Sartorius is long but slender.
Conclude that the Gluteus maximus is the largest muscle by mass due to its size, bulk, and functional importance in locomotion and posture.