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

10. Muscles

Muscle Naming

Anatomy & Physiology

10. Muscles

Muscle Naming

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Problem 8

Textbook Question

The thick, bandlike muscle of mastication that covers much of the ramus of the mandible is the:
a. masseter muscle.
b. temporalis muscle.
c. lateral pterygoid muscle.
d. risorius muscle.

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the context of the question. The problem is asking about a muscle involved in mastication (chewing) that is thick and bandlike, and covers much of the ramus of the mandible. Mastication muscles are responsible for moving the jaw during chewing.

Step 2: Recall the anatomy of the mandible and the muscles of mastication. The ramus is the vertical portion of the mandible, and muscles of mastication include the masseter, temporalis, medial pterygoid, and lateral pterygoid.

Step 3: Analyze the descriptions of the muscles provided in the answer choices: - The masseter muscle is a thick, rectangular muscle that covers much of the ramus of the mandible and is one of the primary muscles of mastication. - The temporalis muscle is a fan-shaped muscle located on the side of the skull, primarily involved in elevating the mandible. - The lateral pterygoid muscle is smaller and located deeper, involved in side-to-side movements of the jaw. - The risorius muscle is not involved in mastication; it is a facial muscle responsible for pulling the corners of the mouth laterally.

Step 4: Match the description in the question to the correct muscle. The thick, bandlike muscle that covers much of the ramus of the mandible aligns with the masseter muscle, based on its anatomical location and function.

Step 5: Confirm your understanding by reviewing the role of the masseter muscle in mastication. It is one of the strongest muscles in the body and plays a key role in elevating the mandible to close the jaw during chewing.

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Key Concepts

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

Masseter Muscle

The masseter muscle is a thick, rectangular muscle located at the back of the jaw. It plays a crucial role in the process of mastication, or chewing, by elevating the mandible to close the mouth. This muscle is one of the primary muscles involved in biting and grinding food, making it essential for effective digestion.

Temporalis Muscle

The temporalis muscle is a fan-shaped muscle located on the side of the head, above the ear. It assists in elevating and retracting the mandible, contributing to the chewing process. While it is important for mastication, it is not as prominent as the masseter in covering the ramus of the mandible.

Pterygoid Muscles

The pterygoid muscles, including the lateral and medial pterygoids, are located deeper in the jaw and are involved in the complex movements of the mandible. The lateral pterygoid muscle helps in depressing and protracting the mandible, while the medial pterygoid assists in elevating it. Together, they facilitate side-to-side movements necessary for grinding food.