Anatomy - Muscular System Flashcards

A muscle is composed of many muscle fibers arranged in bundles called?

Individual muscles are separated by fascia, which also forms?

What is the outermost layer that surrounds the entire muscle?

What is the name of the tissue that separates and surrounds the fascicles (bundles)?

What surrounds each individual muscle fiber?

What is the muscle fiber membrane called?

What is the cytoplasm of a muscle fiber called?

Within the sarcoplasm, what are the many parallel fibers known as?

At the neuromuscular junction, where does a ---- and muscle fiber come together?

Where are ---- stored before being released into the synaptic cleft?

The neurotransmitter that crosses the gap is ---. It brings about muscle contractions.

Muscle Structure

Muscles consist of bundles of fibers known as fascicles.
Each individual muscle is separated by fascia, which also forms tendons connecting muscles to bones.

Muscle Layers

The epimysium is the outermost layer that encases the entire muscle.
Perimysium surrounds and separates the fascicles (bundles of muscle fibers).
The endomysium surrounds each individual muscle fiber, providing support and insulation.

Muscle Fiber Anatomy

The muscle fiber membrane, known as the sarcolemma, plays a critical role in muscle contraction.
Sarcoplasm refers to the cytoplasm of the muscle fiber, containing essential components for muscle function.
Within the sarcoplasm, there are numerous parallel fibers called myofibrils, which are vital for muscle contraction.

Neuromuscular Junction

The neuromuscular junction is the site where a nerve connects with a muscle fiber, facilitating communication for movement.
Neurotransmitters are stored in vesicles and released into the synaptic cleft to transmit signals across the junction.
Acetylcholine is the key neurotransmitter that crosses the synaptic gap, instigating muscle contractions.

Test your knowledge of the muscular system with these flashcards that cover key terms and definitions. Learn about the structure of muscles, including fascicles, tendons, and connective tissues such as epimysium and perimysium. Perfect for students studying anatomy or anyone interested in understanding the muscular system better.