Science MUSCLULAR SYSTEM Flashcards
(7 cards)
Muscle Fiber
A long, thin cell that makes up muscles. Muscle fibers contract to create movement in the body and are grouped together to form the muscles that help us move.
Tendon
A strong, flexible tissue that connects muscles to bones. Tendons help transfer the force from muscles to bones, allowing us to move our joints.
Skeletal Muscle
A type of muscle attached to bones that helps with voluntary movements, like walking or lifting objects. These muscles work in pairs to move different parts of the body.
Smooth Muscle
Involuntary muscles found in organs like the stomach, intestines, and blood vessels. Smooth muscles help with automatic functions, such as digestion and blood flow, without us having to think about it.
. Cardiac Muscle
The specialized muscle found only in the heart. Cardiac muscles work automatically to keep the heart beating and blood circulating throughout the body.
Muscle Contraction
The process of muscles tightening or shortening, creating force to produce movement. This occurs when muscle fibers get signals from nerves, helping us perform actions like jumping or smiling.
Flexor and Extensor Muscles
Muscle pairs that work together to bend and straighten parts of the body. For example, the biceps (flexor) bends the arm, while the triceps (extensor) straightens it. These muscles work in opposition to allow smooth movement.