Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of intercalated discs in cardiac muscle tissue?

Accepted Answer

They provide a structural connection and allow rapid electrical communication between cardiac muscle cells.

Question 2

A patient is unable to flex their forearm at the elbow. Which muscle is most likely impaired?

Accepted Answer

Biceps brachii

Question 3

Which of the following is a correct pairing of muscle type and a unique structural feature visible under the microscope?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac muscle – striations and intercalated discs

Question 4

During a lab, you observe muscle tissue with long, cylindrical, multinucleated fibers and visible striations. Which type of muscle are you most likely viewing?

Accepted Answer

Skeletal muscle

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the role of the sarcomere in muscle contraction?

Accepted Answer

It is the smallest contractile unit of a muscle fiber, where actin and myosin interact.

Question 6

A muscle is named 'biceps brachii.' According to muscle naming conventions, what does 'biceps' indicate?

Accepted Answer

The muscle has two origins (heads).

Question 7

Which muscle is primarily responsible for the major movement of inhalation (inspiration)?

Accepted Answer

Diaphragm

Question 8

A patient presents with difficulty blinking and closing their eyes. Which muscle is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Orbicularis oculi

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the function of the neuromuscular junction?

Accepted Answer

It is the structural and functional connection between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber.

Question 10

Which muscle is responsible for plantar flexion of the foot and also flexes the knee?

Accepted Answer

Gastrocnemius

Question 11

A muscle is described as having fibers running parallel to the midline of the body. According to muscle naming conventions, which term would likely be used in its name?

Accepted Answer

Rectus

Question 12

Which of the following equations best represents the relationship between muscle force ($$F$$), cross-sectional area ($$A$$), and muscle stress ($$\sigma$$)?

Accepted Answer

$$\sigma = F / A$$

Question 13

Which muscle is antagonistic to the biceps brachii during forearm flexion?

Accepted Answer

Triceps brachii

Question 14

A muscle is named 'flexor carpi radialis.' Based on its name, what is its likely action and location?

Accepted Answer

It flexes the wrist on the radial side.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the arrangement of fascicles in the rectus abdominis muscle?

Accepted Answer

Parallel

Question 16

A patient has difficulty elevating their shoulders (shrugging). Which muscle is most likely weakened?

Accepted Answer

Trapezius

Question 17

Which of the following statements about smooth muscle is correct?

Accepted Answer

Smooth muscle fibers are spindle-shaped and lack striations.

Question 18

Which muscle is primarily responsible for compressing the abdominal contents and aiding in forced expiration?

Accepted Answer

Transversus abdominis

Question 19

A muscle is described as 'vastus lateralis.' What does 'lateralis' indicate about its location?

Accepted Answer

It is located on the lateral side of the thigh.

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why cardiac muscle can contract in a coordinated fashion?

Accepted Answer

Intercalated discs allow rapid transmission of action potentials between cells.

Muscular System Lab: Structure, Function, and Major Muscles

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