The sliding filament model of contraction involves__________ .
A) the Z discs sliding over the myofilaments
B) actin and myosin lengthening in order to slide past each other
C) actin and myosin sliding past each other and partially overlapping
D) the shortening of thick filaments so that thin filaments slide past

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sliding filament model of contraction involves actin and myosin sliding past each other and partially overlapping. As the sarcomere shortens, the thin filaments slide past the thick filaments, causing the sarcomere to contract. The Z discs remain in place during this process. Actin and myosin do not lengthen during muscle contraction, they simply slide past each other. The thick filaments do not shorten either, but instead maintain their length while the thin filaments slide past them.

The Sliding Filament Model of Contraction Involves__________