Briefly describe the mechanism of muscle contraction.

In muscle, myosin protein has 'heads' that act as cross-bridges as they bind to actin, another protein. When ATP binds to myosin, its head detaches from actin, swings forward and rebinds. Rebinding releases ADP and a phosphate ion, and rage the actin filament alongside the replacement of the myosin head, causing the contraction of muscle.

HG
Answered by Hester G. Biology tutor

10111 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain how a very high temperature can stop an enzyme from working.


Explain the role of the loop of Henle in producing concentrated urine.


DNA helicase is important in DNA replication - explain why.


Give one reason as to why is it important that Carbon dioxide (CO2) is removed from the blood ?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning