Questions and Answers
Why does the long refractory period in cardiac muscle prevent tetanic contractions?
To prevent sustained contractions that would stop the pumping of blood.
What feature of skeletal muscles allows for rapid cycles of contraction and relaxation?
Their ability to undergo frequent stimuli.
Why is the ability of skeletal muscles to undergo tetanic contractions often considered a desirable feature?
It allows for sustained forceful contractions necessary for movement and posture.
What is the physiological significance of the refractory period in the heart?
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How does the rapid spread of contractions across the heart contribute to its function as a pump?
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What distinguishes pacemaker cells in the heart from other cardiac muscle cells and skeletal muscle cells?
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Explain why tetanic contractions in the heart would be lethal.
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How does the refractory period in the heart help in the effective circulation of blood?
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What role do gap junctions play in the coordinated function of the heart as a pump?
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Why is the coordination of heart contractions crucial for maintaining blood pressure?
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