Wisconsin Esthetics State Board Practice Test

What does the term "insertion" refer to regarding muscle structure?

1. The non-moving portion attached to bone

2. The muscle’s midsection

3. The part joined to movable attachments

4. The muscle that is not consciously controlled

The correct answer is: The part joined to movable attachments

The term "insertion" in muscle structure specifically refers to the part of the muscle that is joined to movable attachments, typically at the bone. This is important for understanding how muscles function in the body. When a muscle contracts, it pulls on the insertion point, leading to movement at the joint where it is attached. It contrasts with the origin point of the muscle, which is the more stationary attachment to the bone. This concept is fundamental in fields like anatomy and physiology, as it helps clarify how muscles interact with the skeletal system to produce movement. The other options pertain to different aspects of muscle structure. The non-moving portion attached to bone describes the origin, while the muscle’s midsection is known as the belly. Lastly, a muscle that is not consciously controlled would refer to involuntary muscles, which is unrelated to the concept of insertion. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping how muscles operate in the body.