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Multiple Choice
Triggering of the muscle action potential occurs after which of the following events?
A
Calcium ions are pumped back into the sarcoplasmic reticulum
B
ATP is hydrolyzed to ADP and phosphate
C
Acetylcholine binds to receptors on the motor end plate
D
Myosin heads detach from actin filaments
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the context of muscle contraction. Muscle action potential is initiated at the neuromuscular junction, where a motor neuron communicates with a muscle fiber.
Step 2: Recall the role of acetylcholine (ACh). Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter released from the motor neuron into the synaptic cleft, where it binds to receptors on the motor end plate of the muscle fiber.
Step 3: Recognize the sequence of events. When acetylcholine binds to its receptors, it triggers the opening of ion channels, leading to an influx of sodium ions (Na+) into the muscle cell. This depolarization generates the muscle action potential.
Step 4: Differentiate the other options. Calcium ions being pumped back into the sarcoplasmic reticulum occurs during muscle relaxation, ATP hydrolysis is part of the cross-bridge cycle, and myosin heads detaching from actin filaments is also part of the relaxation phase.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct event leading to the triggering of the muscle action potential is acetylcholine binding to receptors on the motor end plate, as this initiates the electrical signal required for muscle contraction.