Q:
What is the function of the sphincter muscles?
A:
Quick Answer
Sphincter muscles contract to close various orifices in the body. These muscles are ring-shaped and can be found in the stomach, anus and even the eyes.
Continue Reading
Credit:
Randen Pederson
CC-BY 2.0
Full Answer
The sphincter found in the stomach, also called the "sphincter pylori," keeps food from passing into the small intestine until it is properly mixed with digestive juices. The most commonly known, the sphincter ani externus, keeps the anus closed until waste is ready to be excreted. The ring of muscle fibers in the iris responsible for contracting the aperture when exposed to bright light is also a sphincter. It is known as the "sphincter pupillae."
Learn more about MusclesSources:
Related Questions
-
Q:
What are some interesting facts about muscles?
A: Interesting facts about muscles include details about the number of muscles it takes to frown and walk, the strongest muscle in the body, the role of the m... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What muscles should a diagram of the groin area include?
A: An anatomy chart of the groin area should include the muscles and tendons that attach to the crease where the inner thigh meets the body around the externa... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is the alanine cycle?
A: According to Pearson Higher Education, the alanine cycle, or glucose-alanine cycle, is a process by which muscles can cycle the by-products of glucose brea... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is the definition of muscular strength?
A: Muscular strength is the highest amount of effort exerted by the muscles of the body in order to overcome the most resistance in a single effort. A large p... Full Answer >Filed Under:
