Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Control of the ANS

Anatomy & Physiology

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Control of the ANS

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3:15 minutes

Problem 20

Textbook Question

A reflex that causes reciprocal activation of the antagonist muscle is the
a. Crossed-extensor
b. Flexor
c. Tendon
d. Muscle stretch

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of reflexes: Reflexes are automatic, involuntary responses to stimuli. They involve sensory input, integration in the central nervous system, and motor output to muscles.

Learn about reciprocal activation: Reciprocal activation refers to the process where the contraction of one muscle group leads to the relaxation of its antagonist muscle group. This ensures smooth and coordinated movement.

Review the types of reflexes mentioned: a) Crossed-extensor reflex involves the opposite limb compensating for the movement of the stimulated limb. b) Flexor reflex is a withdrawal reflex in response to painful stimuli. c) Tendon reflex monitors tension in a muscle and prevents excessive force. d) Muscle stretch reflex responds to muscle length changes to maintain posture.

Focus on the tendon reflex: The tendon reflex specifically involves reciprocal activation. When tension in a muscle becomes too high, the reflex inhibits the contracting muscle and activates the antagonist muscle to prevent damage.

Conclude that the reflex causing reciprocal activation of the antagonist muscle is the tendon reflex, based on its mechanism of action and function.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Reciprocal Inhibition

Reciprocal inhibition is a physiological process where the activation of one muscle (the agonist) leads to the simultaneous relaxation of its antagonist muscle. This mechanism is crucial for coordinated movement, allowing for smooth transitions between muscle contractions and relaxations. For example, when you flex your arm, the biceps contract while the triceps relax.

Reflex Arcs

Reflex arcs are neural pathways that mediate reflex actions. They typically involve sensory neurons, interneurons, and motor neurons, allowing for rapid responses to stimuli without direct involvement of the brain. In the context of muscle activation, reflex arcs can facilitate reciprocal inhibition, ensuring that when one muscle contracts, its antagonist relaxes to prevent injury and maintain balance.

Types of Reflexes

There are several types of reflexes, including flexor, crossed-extensor, and tendon reflexes. The flexor reflex involves the withdrawal of a limb from a painful stimulus, while the crossed-extensor reflex helps maintain balance by activating the opposite limb. Understanding these reflex types is essential for identifying how muscles interact during various movements and responses.

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