Summary
Skeletal, smooth and cardiac muscle produce movement and move substances inside the body.
In depth
Skeletal muscle is voluntary and striated; cardiac is involuntary and striated with intercalated discs; smooth is involuntary, found in walls of organs. Muscles pull, never push, and work in antagonistic pairs.
Skeletal muscle fibres are multinucleate. Motor units determine fine control. Tendons transmit force. Smooth muscle is controlled by the autonomic system.
Key idea: muscles shorten only by contraction and need antagonists to return.
Frequently asked questions
What is Muscular System?
Skeletal, smooth and cardiac muscle produce movement and move substances inside the body.
Which area of biology covers Muscular System, and how advanced is it?
Muscular System is one of the 51 topics in Human Physiology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Frank-Starling Law, Blood Pressure, Cardiac Conduction System.
Can you give an example of Muscular System?
Biceps flex and triceps extend the elbow.
What should I learn before Muscular System?
Muscular System is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Human Physiology that pair well with it include Homeostasis, Tissues and Organs, Skeletal System.
What topics are related to Muscular System?
The closest topics to Muscular System are Frank-Starling Law, Blood Pressure, Cardiac Conduction System, Skeletal System. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Muscular System?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Muscular System. To practise the whole of Human Physiology, use the Human Physiology quiz.
How is Muscular System different from Frank-Starling Law?
Muscular System: Skeletal, smooth and cardiac muscle produce movement and move substances inside the body. Frank-Starling Law: Greater ventricular filling stretches the heart and increases the force of the next contraction. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Muscular System step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Frank-Starling Law and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Human Physiology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.