In: Anatomy and Physiology
Answer true/false for the following:
1. The power stroke is generated during the contraction-relaxation phase.
2. Reformation of cross bridges occurs during the excitation-contraction phase.
1st Statment: false.
The power strock is generated during the contraction phase.
After formation of cross bridges, the cross bridge pulls the attached actin filaments towards the center of the A band. The Z lines attached to these actin filaments are also pulled in wards from both sides, there by causing shortening of the sarcomere i.e. contraction.
During the shortening of the muscle the I bands get reduced in size/ length ( z membranes of the sarcomere are brought closer, whereas the A bands retain their size/ length. It is important to note that myofilaments do not actually shorten. As the thin filaments are pulled deep in to the A bands makeing H bands narrow, the muscle shows the effect contraction.
2 nd Statment is false.
Reforming of cross bridge occur during the contraction phase.
After power stock is completed the myosin head releases the ADP. At the end of the power stoked, the myosin head binds to new molecule of ATP, which displaces / release it form actin. The combination power of several cross bridge cycles causes the muscle to contract. These cycles continue as long as the muscle receives stimuli.