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Multiple Choice
Which type of muscle tissue has the greatest effect on the body's heat production?
A
Cardiac muscle
B
Epithelial tissue
C
Skeletal muscle
D
Smooth muscle
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of muscle tissues in heat production: Heat is generated in the body primarily through metabolic processes, and muscle tissues play a significant role in this process due to their high energy demands during contraction.
Review the types of muscle tissue: There are three types of muscle tissue in the body—skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, and smooth muscle. Each has distinct functions and characteristics.
Analyze skeletal muscle's contribution to heat production: Skeletal muscle is the largest muscle tissue by mass in the body and is responsible for voluntary movements. During activity, skeletal muscles contract and generate heat as a byproduct of cellular respiration, particularly during shivering, which is a mechanism to produce heat in cold conditions.
Compare skeletal muscle to cardiac and smooth muscle: Cardiac muscle is specialized for pumping blood and operates continuously, but its mass is much smaller compared to skeletal muscle. Smooth muscle is found in organs like the intestines and blood vessels, and while it contributes to heat production, its role is minor compared to skeletal muscle due to its smaller size and lower energy demands.
Conclude that skeletal muscle has the greatest effect on heat production: Based on its large mass, high energy demands during contraction, and role in thermoregulation (e.g., shivering), skeletal muscle is the primary contributor to the body's heat production.