In regards to the relationship between resting muscle fiber length and tension generated,
A)maximal tension is generated when the thick and thin filaments slightly overlap.
B)maximal tension is generated when the thick and thin filaments do not overlap.
C)maximal tension is generated when the thick and thin filaments greatly overlap.
D)the amount of overlap is unimportant in determining maximal tension.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Maximal tension is generated when the thick and thin filaments slightly overlap. This length allows for the maximum number of cross-bridges to form between the actin and myosin filaments, leading to the greatest amount of force generation. If the filaments do not overlap at all, no force can be generated, and if they overlap too much, the myosin heads cannot bind to the actin filaments. Therefore, maximal tension is achieved at a slight overlap of the filaments.

In Regards to the Relationship Between Resting Muscle Fiber Length