The stretch reflex

Question

The stretch reflex

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The stretch reflex is important in regulating muscle length. When a muscle is stretched, sensory neurons activate motor neurons, which causes the muscle to contract and return to its normal length. This reflex helps to maintain posture and balance. Choice A is partially correct, as the stretch reflex does involve multiple synapses, but it is not exclusively polysynaptic. Choice C is incorrect, as the Golgi tendon organ is involved in the inverse stretch reflex, which prevents muscle contraction when tension is too high. Choice D is also incorrect, as the stretch reflex only applies to skeletal muscle, not smooth muscle.

The Stretch Reflex