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Multiple Choice
Properly controlled skeletal muscle contractions produced by changing the frequency of stimulation and the strength of stimulation are referred to as __________.
A
multiple motor unit summation
B
graded muscle responses
C
wave summation
D
muscle twitches
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the concept of skeletal muscle contractions. Skeletal muscles contract in response to stimuli from the nervous system, and these contractions can vary in strength and frequency.
Recognize that 'graded muscle responses' refer to the ability of muscles to produce varying levels of force depending on the frequency and strength of stimulation. This is crucial for performing different types of movements.
Consider 'multiple motor unit summation,' which involves recruiting more motor units to increase the strength of contraction. This is one way to achieve graded muscle responses.
Understand 'wave summation,' which occurs when stimuli are provided in rapid succession, leading to stronger contractions as the muscle does not fully relax between stimuli. This contributes to graded muscle responses by increasing contraction strength.
Differentiate 'muscle twitches,' which are single, brief contractions resulting from a single stimulus. They are not typically involved in producing graded muscle responses, as they do not vary in strength or frequency.