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

9. Muscle Tissue

Steps of Muscle Contraction

Anatomy & Physiology

9. Muscle Tissue

Steps of Muscle Contraction

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2:31 minutes

Problem 25

Textbook Question

Smooth muscle has some unique properties, such as low energy usage, and the ability to maintain contraction over long periods. Tie these properties to the function of smooth muscle in the body.

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Understand the unique properties of smooth muscle: Smooth muscle is known for its low energy consumption and ability to sustain contractions for extended periods. These properties are due to the slow cycling of myosin cross-bridges and the latch mechanism, which allows the muscle to maintain tension with minimal ATP usage.

Relate low energy usage to smooth muscle function: Smooth muscle is found in areas like blood vessels, the gastrointestinal tract, and the respiratory system, where continuous or rhythmic contractions are necessary. The low energy requirement ensures that these muscles can function efficiently over long durations without fatigue.

Explain the ability to maintain contraction: Smooth muscle's ability to sustain contraction (tonic contraction) is crucial for maintaining functions such as blood pressure regulation (in blood vessels) and the movement of food through the digestive system (peristalsis). This is achieved through mechanisms like the latch state, where myosin remains attached to actin for longer periods without consuming additional ATP.

Connect these properties to specific examples: For instance, in blood vessels, smooth muscle contraction helps maintain vascular tone, ensuring proper blood flow and pressure. In the gastrointestinal tract, smooth muscle contractions facilitate the movement of food and waste through the digestive system.

Summarize the importance of these properties: The low energy usage and ability to maintain contraction make smooth muscle highly efficient for its roles in the body, supporting essential functions like circulation, digestion, and respiration without requiring excessive energy expenditure.

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Key Concepts

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

Smooth Muscle Function

Smooth muscle is a type of involuntary muscle found in various organs, including the intestines and blood vessels. Its primary function is to facilitate involuntary movements, such as peristalsis in the digestive tract and vasoconstriction in blood vessels, which are essential for maintaining homeostasis and regulating blood flow.

Energy Efficiency

One of the defining characteristics of smooth muscle is its low energy usage compared to skeletal muscle. This efficiency allows smooth muscle to sustain contractions for extended periods without fatigue, making it ideal for functions like maintaining blood vessel tone and controlling the movement of substances through hollow organs.

Tonic Contraction

Tonic contraction refers to the sustained contraction of smooth muscle, which enables it to maintain a state of readiness or tension over long durations. This property is crucial for functions such as keeping blood vessels constricted or maintaining the pressure in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for continuous and controlled physiological processes.

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Textbook Question

Define neuromuscular junction, motor unit, tetanus, graded response, aerobic respiration, anaerobic glycolysis, muscle fatigue, and neurotransmitter.

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Textbook Question

When Eric returned from jogging, he was breathing heavily and sweating profusely, and he complained that his legs ached and felt weak. On the basis of what you have learned about muscle energy metabolism, respond to the following questions:

a. Why is Eric breathing heavily?

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Textbook Question

b. What ATP-harvesting pathway have his working muscles been using that leads to such a breathing pattern?

Which of the following is the correct sequence of events for muscle contraction?