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Multiple Choice
During which of the following types of muscle contractions does a muscle lengthen as it contracts?
A
Tetanic contraction
B
Concentric contraction
C
Isometric contraction
D
Eccentric contraction
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the different types of muscle contractions. Muscle contractions are categorized based on how the muscle changes in length and the type of force it generates.
Step 2: Define each type of contraction:
- Tetanic contraction: A sustained contraction resulting from rapid, repeated stimulation of the muscle.
- Concentric contraction: The muscle shortens as it generates force.
- Isometric contraction: The muscle generates force without changing its length.
- Eccentric contraction: The muscle lengthens while generating force.
Step 3: Focus on the eccentric contraction. This type of contraction occurs when the muscle is actively resisting a force while being stretched. For example, during the lowering phase of a bicep curl, the biceps muscle lengthens as it contracts to control the descent of the weight.
Step 4: Compare the eccentric contraction to the other types listed in the problem. None of the other types involve the muscle lengthening as it contracts. Tetanic contraction involves sustained force, concentric contraction involves shortening, and isometric contraction involves no change in length.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is eccentric contraction, as it is the only type of contraction where the muscle lengthens while generating force.