Synchronous muscle
- Pronunciation
- /SIN-kruh-nuhs MUH-suhl/
- Category
- Physiology
- Singular
- Synchronous muscle
- Plural
- Synchronous muscles
Definition
A type of muscle in insects that contracts once per nerve impulse, allowing for relatively slow but powerful movements.
Etymology
From Greek 'synchronous' meaning 'occurring at the same time' and Latin 'musculus' meaning 'little mouse, muscle'.
Example
The synchronous muscles in the legs of a grasshopper enable it to make powerful jumps.
Synonyms
- Twitch muscle
Related Terms
- Asynchronous muscle
- Muscle contraction
- Neuromuscular control
Usage Notes
Synchronous muscles are contrasted with asynchronous muscles, which can contract multiple times per nerve impulse, typically found in the flight muscles of fast-flying insects.