Question

Explain the structure and function of the muscle cell.

Answer 1

The basic function of muscle is to generate force. Secondarily, muscles can provide some shape and form to the organism. Anatomically and functionally, muscle can be divided into two types, smooth and striated. Striated or striped muscle can be further divided into skeletal muscle and cardiac (heart) muscle. Regardless of the type, all muscles share the following basic properties (Gowitzke and Milner 1988):

• Conductivity: A muscle has the ability to conduct an action potential.

• Irritability: When stimulated, the muscle will react.

• Contractility: A muscle can shorten or produce tension between its ends.