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 the hip abductor muscles?
A: The hip abductor muscles are a group of four muscles that stabilize the gait and control the ability of the leg to rotate away from the body. These four mu... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
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 are used to throw a shot put?
A: The process of throwing a shot put involves many muscles in the body starting at the bottom with the leg muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings and ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What muscle group allows you to draw your legs to the midline of your body?
A: The hip adductor muscles allow humans to draw their legs to the mid-line of the body, an action which is aptly named adduction. Other movements the hip add... Full Answer >Filed Under:
