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Multiple Choice
In a fully contracted sarcomere, the H zone:
A
contains only thin filaments
B
disappears as the thin filaments overlap the thick filaments completely
C
remains unchanged in width
D
widens as the sarcomere shortens
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of a sarcomere: A sarcomere is the functional unit of a muscle fiber, consisting of thick filaments (myosin) and thin filaments (actin). Key regions include the A band, I band, H zone, and Z discs.
Define the H zone: The H zone is the central region of the sarcomere that contains only thick filaments (myosin) and no overlapping thin filaments (actin). It is located within the A band.
Analyze what happens during muscle contraction: During contraction, the thin filaments slide past the thick filaments, moving toward the M line (center of the sarcomere). This sliding action reduces the distance between the Z discs, shortening the sarcomere.
Determine the effect on the H zone: As the thin filaments move inward and overlap with the thick filaments, the H zone becomes progressively smaller. In a fully contracted sarcomere, the thin filaments completely overlap the thick filaments, causing the H zone to disappear.
Conclude the correct answer: Based on the above analysis, the H zone disappears as the thin filaments overlap the thick filaments completely in a fully contracted sarcomere.